Question

Are these restrictions on the right to freedom justified? Give reasons for your answer.

a. Indian citizens need permission to visit some border areas of the country for reasons of security.

b. Outsiders are not allowed to buy property in some areas to protect the interest of the local population

c. The government bans the publication of a book that can go against the ruling party in the next elections

Answer 1

Instructions:

• Critically examine each case and analyse whether it violates the right to freedom or not.
• Provide suitable reasons to support your analysis.

Solution:
Statement “a” is justified restriction on the Right to Freedom.

• Reason
  Though the Right to Freedom gives citizens the freedom to move freely throughout the country, it is still reasonable to impose restrictions on visit to strategic border areas in India. These restrictions are justified in the sense that border areas need special security and protection and as such the government can put reasonable restrictions to regulate the movement of outsiders in these states.

Statement “b” is justified restriction on the Right to Freedom.

• Reason
  This is so because certain states in India like the states of Northeast have a unique culture.
  These states of northeast India have a substantial tribal population. Given their historical isolation, special provisions have been endowed upon them to protect the land of native residents of these states.
  As such, it is justified to restrict outsiders from buying property in these places to safeguard the cultural identity of the tribal population.

Statement “c” is not a justified restriction on Right to Freedom as it violates our freedom of speech and expression.

• Reason
  Right to Freedom provides for freedom of speech and expression which empowers all the citizens of the country to voice their thoughts and opinions, in a peaceful manner, without any fear. This freedom also ensures that critical information is reached out to the cizens on any matter of public importance.