UPSC Prelims 2023·GS1·polity-and-governance·constitution

In essence, what does 'Due Process of Law' mean?

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Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. AThe principle of natural justiceCorrect
  2. BThe procedure established by law
  3. CFair application of law
  4. DEquality before law

Explanation

'Due Process of Law' is a concept that originated in the United States. In essence, it means that a person should not be deprived of life, liberty, or property without fair and just legal proceedings. It implies that not only should the procedure established by law be followed, but the law itself must also be fair, just, and reasonable. This is a broader concept than 'procedure established by law', which only checks if the prescribed procedure is followed, irrespective of the fairness of the law itself. The principle of natural justice, which includes rules like 'Audi alteram partem' (hear the other side) and 'Nemo judex in causa sua' (no one should be a judge in their own cause), aligns very closely with 'due process of law' because both emphasize fairness, reasonableness, and impartiality in legal and administrative actions. Therefore, 'Due Process of Law' encompasses the spirit and application of natural justice to ensure that the law is not arbitrary and its application is equitable.
polity-and-governance: In essence, what does 'Due Process of Law' mean?
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