In essence, what does Due Process of Law' mean?

Due Process of Law ensures that legal procedures are free from arbitrariness and irrationality.

Natural justice, derived from English common law, mandates procedural fairness. This includes Audi Alteram Partem (hear the other side), guaranteeing every party the right to be heard; a cornerstone of natural justice.

The Supreme Court of India, in the Maneka Gandhi case, recognized Due Process of Law to combat arbitrariness.

Natural Justice embodies fairness, reasonableness, equity, and equality. It represents procedural principles developed by judges to ensure administrative agencies act fairly when decisions affect individual rights.

Due Process of Law is essentially the principle of natural justice.

Hence option (a) is the correct answer.