The Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression is guaranteed by which Article of the Indian Constitution?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. Article 19(1)(a).
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The Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression is guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution.
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Article 19(1)(a) provides all citizens the right to freely express their opinions, through spoken, written, or electronic media, including the press.
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This right is fundamental, but it is not absolute. The state can impose reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) in the interests of:
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Security of the State
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Friendly relations with foreign states
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Public order
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Decency or morality
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Contempt of court
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Defamation
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Incitement to an offense
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- Thus, Article 19(1)(a) ensures citizens can participate in public discourse, express opinions freely, and hold authorities accountable, forming a cornerstone of Indian democracy.
Other Options:
- Article 21(1)(c): This reference is incomplete as Article 21 of the Constitution of India deals with the fundamental right to Protection of Life and Personal Liberty, and does not have a clause (1).
- Article 25: This deals with the fundamental right to Freedom of Conscience and Free Profession, Practice and Propagation of Religion.
- Article 141(d): This reference is incorrect as Article 141 of the Constitution of India deals with the law declared by the Supreme Court being binding on all courts and does not contain a clause (d).