Part III - Fundamental Rights • Article

Article 18 Simplified: Abolition of titles

Article 18 bans titles like 'Maharaja' or 'Sir' to ensure everyone is an equal citizen. Academic and military awards are allowed.

Official Text

(1) No title, not being a military or academic distinction, shall be conferred by the State. (2) No citizen of India shall accept any title from any foreign State. (3) No person who is not a citizen of India shall, while he holds any office of profit or trust under the State, accept without the consent of the President any title from any foreign State. (4) No person holding any office of profit or trust under the State shall, without the consent of the President, accept any present, emolument, or office of any kind from or under any foreign State.

Simple Meaning

Article 18 bans titles like 'Maharaja' or 'Sir' to ensure everyone is an equal citizen. Academic and military awards are allowed.

Explain Like Ten

It means the government won't call someone 'Prince' or 'King' anymore. In India, we are all common citizens, though you can still use titles like 'Doctor' or 'Captain' if you earned them.

Student Mode

Abolition of titles (national and foreign) for citizens; protects the republican nature of the state.

Example

A famous example is the use of national honors like Bharat Ratna or Padma Vibhushan. In 1996, the Supreme Court ruled that these are awards of honor, not titles, so a recipient cannot use them as a prefix or suffix (like writing 'Padma Shri Sachin Tendulkar' on business cards or letterheads).

Key Takeaway

India is a Republic where merit matters more than inherited titles.

FAQs

What about Bharat Ratna?

The Supreme Court ruled that Bharat Ratna and Padma awards are 'Honors', not 'Titles', and cannot be used as a prefix.

Can I accept a title from the King of England?

No, Indian citizens are prohibited from accepting any titles from foreign states under Article 18.

Are military ranks like 'Major' titles?

No, military and academic distinctions are specifically allowed under Article 18.

What happens if someone uses an honor as a title?

They can be asked to return the honor (like Padma Shri) if they use it as a title prefix.

Quiz

Which titles are allowed?

Answer: Military titles

Can a citizen accept a foreign title?

Answer: No

Bharat Ratna is a ____, not a title.

Answer: Honor

Which article removes noble titles?

Answer: Art 18