Delhi APO 2005

Assertion (A): Equal pay for equal work is a constitutional goal to be achieved by the State. Reasons (R): Claims for equal pay for equal work is a fundamental right of an employee.

Verified Answer
A. Both A and R are individually true and R is the correct explanation of A
B. Both A and R are individually true but R is not the correct explanation of A
C. A is true but R is false
D. A is false but R is true

Explanation:

Assertion (A) is true. 'Equal pay for equal work' is a Directive Principle of State Policy under Article 39(d) of the Indian Constitution, making it a constitutional goal. Reason (R) is also true. The Supreme Court of India, through various judgments, has elevated the principle of 'equal pay for equal work' from a mere Directive Principle to an enforceable fundamental right, particularly under Articles 14 and 16 (Right to Equality) of the Constitution, especially for government employees. Thus, the recognition of it as a fundamental right is a means by which the constitutional goal is achieved and enforced, making R a correct explanation of A.