Article 19 guarantees a set of fundamental freedoms essential for the functioning of a democratic polity. These freedoms are available only to citizens and are subject to reasonable restrictions imposed by the State in the interests specified in the Constitution.
Article 19(1) confers six fundamental freedoms on citizens:
This includes the right to express opinions, ideas, beliefs, and information through speech, writing, printing, or any other medium.
Citizens have the right to assemble peacefully, provided the assembly is unarmed and does not threaten public order.
Citizens may form associations, unions, or cooperative societies for lawful purposes.
Citizens have the right to move freely throughout the territory of India.
Citizens have the right to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India.
The right to acquire, hold, and dispose of property was originally guaranteed under Article 19(1)(f) but was removed by the 44th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1978.
Citizens have the right to practise any profession or to carry on any occupation, trade, or business.
The State may impose reasonable restrictions in the interests of:
Restrictions may be imposed in the interests of:
The State may impose restrictions in the interests of:
Restrictions may be imposed in the interests of:
The State may impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of the general public, including:
Article 19 strikes a balance between individual liberty and collective interest. While it ensures essential freedoms necessary for democratic participation, it also empowers the State to impose reasonable restrictions to maintain public order, security, and constitutional integrity.