What is Article 19?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
Article 19(1)(a): Freedom of speech and expression subject to reasonable restrictions
- 2.
Article 19(1)(b): Freedom to assemble peaceably and without arms
- 3.
Article 19(1)(c): Freedom to form associations or unions
- 4.
Article 19(1)(d): Freedom to move freely throughout the territory of India
- 5.
Article 19(1)(e): Freedom to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India
- 6.
Article 19(1)(g): Freedom to practice any profession, or to carry on any occupation, trade or business
- 7.
Reasonable restrictions can be imposed on these freedoms in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, defamation or incitement to an offence.
- 8.
These rights are available only to citizens and not to foreigners.
- 9.
The State can make laws imposing reasonable restrictions on these rights.
- 10.
The Supreme Court has played a crucial role in interpreting the scope and limitations of these freedoms.
Visual Insights
Article 19: Freedom of Speech and Expression
Mind map illustrating the key provisions of Article 19 and its reasonable restrictions.
Article 19
- ●Freedoms (19(1))
- ●Reasonable Restrictions (19(2)-(6))
- ●Supreme Court Interpretations
Evolution of Article 19 Jurisprudence
Timeline showing key events and Supreme Court judgments related to Article 19.
Article 19 has been subject to numerous interpretations and amendments, shaping the understanding of freedom of speech and expression in India.
- 1950Constitution of India comes into force, enshrining Article 19
- 1962Sedition law (Section 124A IPC) challenged in *Kedar Nath Singh v. State of Bihar*
- 1978*Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India*: Expanded the scope of Article 19
- 2015Shreya Singhal v. Union of India: Section 66A of IT Act struck down
- 2021Supreme Court emphasizes the importance of freedom of speech in a democracy
- 2024Debate on regulation of social media and freedom of expression continues
- 2026Delhi Police issue orders to prevent graffiti protests, raising concerns about Article 19(1)(a) and 19(1)(b)
Recent Developments
4 developmentsOngoing debates on freedom of speech and expression on social media platforms.
Challenges to restrictions imposed on internet access in certain regions.
Supreme Court judgments clarifying the scope of freedom of press.
Amendments to laws related to defamation and hate speech.