Question

Reasonable restrictions can be imposed on the right of free movement

• A. In the interest of general public
• B. In the interest of political leaders
• C. In the interest of women safety
• D. All of the above

Hint:

When answering questions on fundamental rights, always recall the specific grounds for restriction mentioned in the Constitution itself (e.g., in Articles 19(2) to 19(6)). The phrase "interests of the general public" is a common ground for restricting several rights under Article 19.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks about the grounds on which reasonable restrictions can be imposed on the fundamental right to freedom of movement under the Indian Constitution.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The right to freedom of movement is guaranteed under Article 19(1)(d) (to move freely throughout the territory of India) and Article 19(1)(e) (to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India).
However, this right is not absolute. Article 19(5) lays down the grounds for imposing reasonable restrictions. It states:
"Nothing in sub-clauses (d) and (e) of the said clause shall affect the operation of any existing law in so far as it imposes, or prevent the State from making any law imposing, reasonable restrictions on the exercise of any of the rights conferred by the said sub-clauses either in the interests of the general public or for the protection of the interests of any Scheduled Tribe."
- (A) In the interest of general public: This is an explicit ground mentioned in Article 19(5).
- (B) In the interest of political leaders: This is not a constitutionally valid ground for restricting fundamental rights.
- (C) In the interest of women safety: While this is a very important concern, it falls under the broader category of "in the interest of the general public." The specific constitutional phrase is what is required. For example, restricting movement in a riot-prone area to protect everyone (including women) would be a restriction in the interest of the general public.
Therefore, the broadest and most accurate constitutional ground among the options is 'In the interest of general public'.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Reasonable restrictions can be imposed on the right of free movement in the interest of the general public.