Question

Which of the following principle implies that no one is above the law of the land?

• A. Equal protection of law
• B. Equality before law
• C. Prohibition of discrimination
• D. Principle of natural justice

Hint:

Think of the difference this way:

\textbf{Equality before law} = No one is above the law. (Absence of special treatment).
\textbf{Equal protection of law} = The law protects everyone equally in similar situations. (Positive duty to treat equals equally).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question
The question asks for the legal principle that embodies the idea that everyone, regardless of their status or position, is subject to the same laws. This is a core tenet of the Rule of Law.

Step 2: Defining the Principles


(A) Equal protection of law: This principle means that the law should be applied equally to all people in similar circumstances. It allows for reasonable classification and means "equality of treatment in equal circumstances". It is about the application of the law.
(B) Equality before law: This is a principle of British origin. It means the absence of any special privileges for any person, the equal subjection of all persons to the ordinary law of the land, and that no person is above the law. It is a more negative concept, focusing on the absence of privilege.
(C) Prohibition of discrimination: This is a specific application of equality, as mentioned in Article 15, which prohibits the state from discriminating against citizens on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. It is a part of the broader concept of equality but not the principle that 'no one is above the law'.
(D) Principle of natural justice: This refers to procedural fairness in legal proceedings, primarily the rules that no one should be a judge in their own case (\textit{nemo judex in causa sua}) and that the other side must be heard (\textit{audi alteram partem}).

Step 3: Final Answer
The principle that "no one is above the law" is the essence of the concept of Equality before law. Therefore, option (B) is the correct answer.