Which of the following statements with regard to Article 19(1) of the

Which of the following statements with regard to Article 19(1) of the Constitution of India is/are correct ?

  • 1. Freedoms under this Article are not absolute
  • 2. Reasonable restrictions can be imposed on the exercise of freedoms under this Article

Select the answer using the code given below :

1 only
2 only
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-2 – 2024
Both 1 and 2 are correct.
Article 19(1) of the Constitution of India guarantees certain fundamental freedoms (like freedom of speech and expression, assembly, association, movement, residence, and profession). However, these freedoms are not absolute. Statement 1 is correct because the exercise of these freedoms is subject to limitations. Statement 2 is correct because Article 19(2) to 19(6) explicitly provide for the imposition of ‘reasonable restrictions’ on these freedoms on specific grounds mentioned in those clauses (e.g., public order, security of the state, defamation, etc.).
The concept of ‘reasonable restrictions’ implies that the limitations imposed must be just, fair, and not excessive, and their reasonableness can be challenged in a court of law. This balance between fundamental rights and necessary restrictions is a key feature of the Indian Constitution.