Which constitutional provision prohibits state laws that discriminate unfairly or arbitrarily, and requires equal treatment to all persons under like circumstances?

• A. Due Process Clause
• B. Commerce Clause
• C. Equal Protection Clause
• D. Privileges or Immunities Clause

Answer: (C)

Equal protection under the law means states cannot treat people differently in a way that is unfair or arbitrary and must apply the same rules to people in like circumstances. This is guaranteed by the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, which bars state action that creates unlawful classifications or results in unequal treatment without a legitimate objective. In practice, classifications—such as based on race, gender, or other categories—must be justified and applied in a way that is not arbitrary, and the level of scrutiny used depends on the type of classification and the rights involved.

By contrast, the Due Process Clause focuses on fair procedures and protecting fundamental rights in the legal process, not on ensuring equal treatment across groups. The Commerce Clause regulates interstate commerce, not general equality of treatment. The Privileges or Immunities Clause has a much more limited role and does not serve as the broad guarantee of equal protection against state discrimination.