Equal Pay For Equal Work: A Study Of Article 14, Article 16 And Article 39(D) Of The Constitution Of India
Vanshika Choudhary, B.A. LL.B. (Hons.), National University of Study and Research in Law, Ranchi
ABSTRACT
The principle of equal pay for equal work is an important aspect of equality and social justice under the constitution of India. Its aim is to ensure that individuals performing substantially similar work receive equal salaries or remuneration for that work without any discrimination. The constitutional foundation of this principle can be seen in Article 14, which guarantees equality before the law, Article 16, which provides equality of opportunity in public employment and Article 39(d), which directs the State to ensure equal pay for equal work for both men and women. This research paper examines the constitutional basis, judicial development and statutory framework of the principle of equal pay for equal work in India. It aims to understand how the Indian judiciary has interpreted this principle and the circumstances in which differences in remuneration or salaries may be legally justified. This analysis seeks to examine the extent to which the existing legal framework can address inequalities in payment of remuneration.
Keywords: Equal Pay for Equal Work, Article 14, Article 16, Article 39(d), Constitutional Equality, Judicial Interpretation, Equal Remuneration, Indian Labour Law.
