New Delhi: The Indian Constitution has articles 19 to 22 that deal with certain fundamental rights related to freedom of speech and expression, freedom of assembly, freedom to form associations or unions, and freedom of movement. Let’s go through each of these articles with brief explanations and examples:
Article 19: Protection of certain rights regarding freedom of speech, etc.
Article 19 guarantees certain fundamental rights related to freedom of speech and expression, freedom to assemble peaceably and without arms, freedom to form associations or unions, and the right to move freely throughout the territory of India.
Example:
- Freedom of Speech and Expression: Citizens have the right to express their opinions and thoughts freely. For instance, people can peacefully protest against government policies or express their views through various media channels without fear of censorship, subject to reasonable restrictions for the interests of sovereignty, integrity, security of the state, public order, decency, or morality.
- Freedom of Assembly: Citizens have the right to assemble peacefully and hold public meetings or demonstrations without the use of arms. For example, citizens can organize rallies to raise awareness about social or political issues, as long as they do so peacefully and without resorting to violence.
- Freedom to Form Associations or Unions: Citizens have the right to form associations, societies, or unions to pursue common goals and interests. For instance, people can form social or professional organizations, labor unions, or clubs to collectively address their concerns or advocate for their rights.
- Freedom of Movement: Citizens have the right to move freely throughout the territory of India. For example, citizens can travel from one state to another without any hindrance, and this right ensures the mobility and integration of the nation.
Article 20: Protection in respect of conviction for offences
Article 20 provides safeguards against retroactive or ex post facto criminal laws, double jeopardy, and self-incrimination.
Example: If a person commits an act that was legal at the time of occurrence but becomes an offense after the law is amended, the person cannot be punished for the act under the new law due to the protection against ex post facto laws.
Article 21: Protection of life and personal liberty
Article 21 states that no person shall be deprived of their life or personal liberty except according to the procedure established by law.
Example: This article ensures that every person’s life and personal liberty are protected, and no one can be arbitrarily deprived of their life or liberty without following the due process of law. For instance, a person accused of a crime is entitled to a fair trial before being convicted and deprived of their liberty.
Article 22: Protection against arrest and detention in certain cases
Article 22 provides safeguards against arrest and detention in certain situations, ensuring that arrested individuals have the right to be informed of the grounds of their arrest, consult and be defended by a legal practitioner, and be presented before the nearest magistrate within 24 hours.
Example: If a person is arrested by the police, the police must inform them of the reason for the arrest, and the arrested person has the right to consult a lawyer and be produced before a magistrate within 24 hours of arrest. This protects individuals from arbitrary or prolonged detention without proper legal recourse.
It is important to note that the examples provided are general illustrations, and the interpretation and application of these articles may vary based on specific legal contexts and court rulings. The Indian Constitution is a living document, and its interpretation may evolve over time as new legal precedents are set by the judiciary.