Right to Freedom

Freedom.

It is a right guaranteed to us by the Indian Constitution.

We can talk about the government, its policies, its working, mistakes and anything freely and publicly.

We can form our organisations, hold rallies and unite for various causes freely.

We can travel the country and reside and live in any part of the country freely.

We can practice the occupation we want and manage our business as we want to .

There are 6 freedoms granted to us under the Fundamental Right of Freedom:

[Note: Fundamental Rights mean the basic rights which are guaranteed to every individual.]

1. Freedom of speech and expression

Every person has the freedom of speech and expression.

You are the owner and believer of your thoughts and opinions. No one can force you to say or believe something you do not want to.

You can express these thoughts freely and openly to your family, friends, the government or public and no one can stop you.

However, the State can inflict a restriction on this freedom.

This is done to protect any violation in the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of the country, and for the security of the State.

It is also restricted if the expressions are spreading antisocial ideas among the public and negatively affecting them.

2. Freedom to assemble

Every person has the freedom to assemble peacefully without arms.

Example: Most rallies and strikes are possible due to this freedom granted.

However, the State can put restrictions in the interest of public order and the sovereignty and integrity of the country.

Sovereignty is the independence of the government while Integrity means the whole nation working together and not being divided.

3. Freedom to form associations or unions or co-operative societies

People form associations or organisations to work towards common welfare goals.

This right allows them to do so with certain restrictions to maintain public order and integrity.

4. Freedom to move freely

An Indian citizen has the freedom to move freely throughout the territory of India.

Example: Passports are not necessary for domestic travel by airplanes in India. Only a Government authorised ID Card (Aadhar/PAN Card) is required.

But, the government can impose restrictions on this right only in the interest of the general public.

5. Freedom to reside and settle

Citizens of India have the freedom to reside anywhere in the country.

An Indian citizen can work and live in any part of our country, without restrictions on permissions.

However, in the interest of the general public or for protection of the scheduled tribes the State may impose certain restrictions.

6. Freedom to practice any profession or to carry on any business, occupation or trade

Every person can carry any business or practice any profession provided it is not dangerous or immoral.

Also, professional or technical qualifications must be acquired before practicing any profession or carrying on any trade.

Thus, the Indian Constitution protects the Liberty of citizens by granting us these 6 Freedoms.

Liberty is the state of being free from oppressive restrictions and being free to act as one chooses.

Liberty is a basic human right and is achieved only by giving freedom to individuals to do as they please.

But, with giving liberty and freedom, certain restrictions must also be put to ensure no misuse by people.

THE END