Assertion: The principle of equality means that one uniform law cannot be applied to all equally.
Reasoning: The principle of 'Equality' treats equals similarly and unequals differently.

Both Assertion (A) and reasoning (R) are correct and R is the correct explanation of A.

Equality Principle ² Article 14 provides to all the right to equality before law and equal protection of the law. It prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth It means that law treats everyone equally without consideration of their rank or status or other backgrounds. The principle of equality means that one uniform law cannot be applied to all equally as some may not be similarly placed as others. So 'equality' treats equals similarly and unequals differently. For example, the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2006 prescribes the marriage age of girl as 18 years and that of boy as 21 years; this restricts a minor from getting married. This example draws a distinction based on age in relation to the question of the prohibition of child marriage. However, if the marriage between two parties were to be disallowed based on the classification of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth, it would amount to discrimination and breach of the right to equality.