Q. Which one of the following pairs is not correctly matched?

Correct Answer: d) Altering the name of a State – Power of a State Legislature

Explanation:

a) Equality before Law – Guaranteed to both citizens and non-citizens

This is correct. Article 14 of the Indian Constitution guarantees “Equality before the law” and “Equal protection of the laws” to all persons within the territory of India, irrespective of whether they are citizens or non-citizens.

b) Equality of opportunity in public employment – Guaranteed only to Indian citizens

This is correct. Article 16 of the Indian Constitution provides for equality of opportunity in matters of public employment, but it is specifically guaranteed only to Indian citizens.

c) Creating a new State – Power of Parliament

This is correct. Article 3 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Parliament to create a new state by passing a law. The process involves consultation with the concerned State Legislature, but the final authority lies with the Parliament.

d) Altering the name of a State – Power of a State Legislature

This is incorrect. The power to alter the name of a state lies with the Parliament, not the State Legislature. As per Article 3, the Parliament can alter the name of a state through legislation, after consulting the concerned State Legislature. However, the consultation is not binding on Parliament.

Conclusion: Option d is not correctly matched, making it the correct answer.