With reference to Article 14 of the Indian Constitution, consider the following statements: 1. The concept of 'equality before law' is of British origin and represents a negative concept. 2. The concept of 'equal protection of the laws' is of American origin and represents a positive concept. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: The phrase 'equality before law' is borrowed from the British constitution. It is a negative concept because it implies the absence of any special privileges in favor of any individual and equal subjection of all classes to the ordinary law. Statement 2 is correct: The phrase 'equal protection of the laws' is taken from the American Constitution. It is a positive concept because it demands equal treatment under equal circumstances, emphasizing that everyone should have equal access to the protection of laws.