The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, was enacted…

Concept

When a Constitution recognises a right, legislation can provide an operational framework of duties, procedures, and standards to implement that right.

To distinguish related provisions, identify whether each creates a Fundamental Right, a Directive Principle, or a Fundamental Duty, then match its subject and age group to the Act.

Application

The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 is the consequential legislation that gives operational effect to Article 21A. Therefore, the relevant constitutional provision is Article 21A.

Contrast

• Article 14 concerns equality before the law and equal protection of the laws.

• Article 45 concerns early childhood care and education for children below six years.

• Article 51A(k) states the duty of a parent or guardian to provide educational opportunities to a child aged six to fourteen.

Cross-check

The Ministry of Education describes the RTE Act, 2009 as consequential legislation to Article 21A, while the Constitution places Article 21A in Part III among the Fundamental Rights.

Hence, the answer is Article 21A of the Constitution.