The correct option is (d).
Explanation
Article 15 of the Indian Constitution is a key component of the Right to Equality (Articles 14–18). It specifically mandates that the State shall not discriminate against any citizen on certain enumerated grounds.Analysis of Grounds:
- Article 15(1) explicitly provides that: "The State shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them."
- Consequently, all the grounds mentioned in the question Religion (1), Race (2), Caste (3), and Place of birth (4) are expressly prohibited grounds for discrimination under this Article.
Key Takeaway: Article 15 prohibits discrimination by the State against citizens on five specific grounds: religion, race, caste, sex, and place of birth. The use of the word "only" indicates that discrimination based on other grounds is not prohibited by this specific Article.