Question

M. C. Mehta v. State of Tamilnadu case relates to _______

• A. Violation of rights under Juvenile Justice Law
• B. Exploitation of children above 14 years
• C. Violation of the Right to Education
• D. Violation of Fundamental Rights of children under Article 24 of the Indian Constitution

Hint:

Remember that Article 24 of the Indian Constitution protects children from exploitation in hazardous work, ensuring their fundamental rights are upheld.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The M.C. Mehta v. State of Tamil Nadu case was related to the violation of fundamental rights under Article 24 of the Indian Constitution. This case focused on the prevention of the employment of children below the age of 14 in hazardous work. Article 24 of the Indian Constitution prohibits the employment of children in factories, mines, and other hazardous employment to safeguard their well-being.

Answer 2

The case of M. C. Mehta v. State of Tamil Nadu is a landmark judgment in Indian constitutional law that deals with the violation of Fundamental Rights of children under Article 24 of the Indian Constitution.

Background of the Case:
The case was filed by environmental lawyer and public interest litigator M. C. Mehta before the Supreme Court of India to address the issue of child labour, particularly the employment of children in match factories in the Sivakasi region of Tamil Nadu. It was found that thousands of children were working in hazardous conditions in these factories, in blatant violation of their constitutional rights.

Legal Provisions Involved:
- Article 24: Prohibits employment of children below the age of 14 years in factories, mines, or any other hazardous employment.
- Article 39(e) and 39(f): Directive Principles of State Policy which advocate that children are not abused and are given opportunities to develop in a healthy manner.

Supreme Court’s Observations and Directions:
1. The Court recognized that employing children in hazardous industries was a clear violation of Article 24.
2. It directed the government to take steps to ensure that children are not employed in factories, especially in dangerous sectors.
3. Employers were required to pay a compensation of ₹20,000 for every child employed illegally.
4. The Court also instructed the state to establish rehabilitation schemes, including education and vocational training for the affected children.

Significance:
This case marked a major step forward in the enforcement of children's rights in India. It highlighted the importance of protecting children from exploitation and ensuring their access to education and safety.

Conclusion:
The case of M. C. Mehta v. State of Tamil Nadu directly relates to the violation of Fundamental Rights of children under Article 24 of the Indian Constitution, emphasizing the constitutional mandate to safeguard the interests and welfare of children.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Violation of Fundamental Rights of children under Article 24 of the Indian Constitution.