The Third Eye: Judicial Push for Equality Rights

New Delhi

The Supreme Court of India delivered a significant ruling by invalidating Telangana's policy that allowed preferential land allotments to politicians, bureaucrats, judges, and journalists within Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation. The Court described the allocation as "capricious, irrational, and arbitrary," violating the Constitution's Article 14, which ensures equality before the law. It condemned the policy as an "abuse of power" aimed at benefiting the affluent and reinforcing inequality, rather than serving the public good.

The ruling emphasized that such preferential treatment created a system of inequality, giving material advantages to a privileged few while excluding the common citizen. It pointed out that this policy disproportionately favored high-ranking members of the government and judiciary, undermining the ideals of equality. The Court ordered the state to refund all fees paid for these land allotments, including stamp duty and registration fees.

In addition, the Supreme Court reaffirmed the constitutional values of secularism and socialism. It upheld the inclusion of these terms in the Preamble, clarifying that secularism in India means equal treatment of all religions, while socialism refers to a welfare state that aims to reduce poverty and inequality. These judgments reflect the Court’s commitment to ensuring a just and fair system, free from corruption and favoritism.