Explanation

The correct option is A (The principle of natural justice).

• Core Meaning: ‘Due Process of Law’ means that the state must respect all legal rights owed to a person, ensuring that decisions are made according to fundamental fairness and justice rather than arbitrary power.
• Link with Natural Justice: The entire concept rests on the universal principles of natural justice:
  • Audi alteram partem (Right to a fair hearing): No person should be condemned without being given a proper opportunity to present their defense.
  • Nemo judex in causa sua (Rule against bias): The authority deciding a matter must be impartial and free from any personal or institutional bias.
• Application in India (Maneka Gandhi Case, 1978): The Supreme Court established that any procedure used to deprive an individual of life or personal liberty under Article 21 must strictly conform to the principles of natural justice—it cannot be arbitrary, oppressive, or unfair.