Are Rights under Article 19 Absolute?

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The rights guaranteed under Article 19(1) are not completely free from restraint. Each right is subject to a different set of reasonable restrictions. These reasonable restrictions are listed under clauses (2) to (6) of Article 19 [Article 19(2) – Article 19(6)].

Fundamental right under Article 19	Grounds for corresponding restrictions
Freedom of speech and expression	Article 19(2) sovereignty and integrity of India security of the State friendly relations with foreign States public order decency or morality contempt of court defamation incitement to an offence
Freedom to assemble peaceably and without arms	Article 19(3) sovereignty and integrity of India public order
Freedom to form associations or unions	Article 19(4) sovereignty and integrity of India public order morality
Freedom to move freely throughout the territory of India	Article 19(5) in the interests of the general public for the protection of the interests of any Scheduled Tribe
Freedom to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India	Article 19(5) in the interests of the general public for the protection of the interests of any Scheduled Tribe
Freedom to practise any profession, or to carry on any occupation, trade or business	Article 19(6) in the interests of the general public the professional or technical qualifications necessary for practising any profession or carrying on any occupation, trade or business, or the State or a State owned/controlled corporation can carry out any trade, business, industry or service, excluding citizens completely or partially

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