Correct Answer:
B. 19th
The Right to Information (RTI) is a fundamental right in many democratic nations, empowering citizens to access information held by public authorities. In the context of the Indian Constitution, the Right to Information is implicitly derived from Article 19(1)(a), which guarantees the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression. The Supreme Court of India has consistently interpreted this article to include the right to know and receive information, recognizing that informed citizens are essential for a healthy democracy.
- Article 19th is correct because it encompasses the freedom of speech and expression, from which the right to information is derived.
- Article 12th defines the term 'State' for the purpose of Part III of the Constitution, which deals with Fundamental Rights, but does not directly grant RTI.
- Article 15th prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth, unrelated to information access.
- Article 13th deals with laws inconsistent with or in derogation of fundamental rights, not the right to information itself.