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| What is Article 19 of Indian constitution |
📘 Article 19 of the Indian Constitution – Protection of Certain Rights Regarding Freedom of Speech, etc.
🔹 Summary:
Article 19 guarantees six fundamental freedoms to citizens of India. These are essential for the development of individual personality and for maintaining democracy.
🧾 Six Fundamental Freedoms Under Article 19(1):
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Freedom of Speech and Expression
➤ Right to express thoughts freely through speech, writing, art, media, or internet. -
Freedom to Assemble Peacefully
➤ Right to hold public meetings, protests, or rallies without arms. -
Freedom to Form Associations or Unions
➤ Right to form clubs, trade unions, political parties, cooperatives, etc. -
Freedom to Move Freely throughout the Territory of India
➤ Right to travel and reside in any part of India. -
Freedom to Reside and Settle in Any Part of India
➤ Citizens can live anywhere in India (with some exceptions like tribal areas). -
Freedom to Practice Any Profession, or to Carry on Any Occupation, Trade or Business
➤ Right to choose any legal job, business, or profession.
⚠️ Reasonable Restrictions (Under Article 19(2)–(6)):
These freedoms are not absolute. The State can impose reasonable restrictions for:
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Security of the State
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Public order
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Decency or morality
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Sovereignty and integrity of India
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Friendly relations with foreign States
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Contempt of court
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Defamation
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Preventing incitement to an offense
⚖️ Important Cases:
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Romesh Thapar v. State of Madras (1950): Strengthened freedom of the press.
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Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978): Freedoms under Article 19 must be interpreted broadly and in harmony with Articles 14 and 21.
📌 In Simple Words:
Article 19 gives Indian citizens the freedom to speak, protest, move, live, work, and form groups — but with reasonable limits to protect the nation and public order.
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