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's safety
• D. All of the above

Hint:

When answering questions on constitutional restrictions, always refer back to the specific grounds mentioned in the text of the Constitution itself. The phrase "interests of the general public" is a common ground for restrictions on several Article 19 rights.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The fundamental rights guaranteed under Article 19 of the Constitution are not absolute. The Constitution itself provides the grounds on which the state can impose reasonable restrictions on these rights.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Article 19(1)(d) guarantees to all citizens the right "to move freely throughout the territory of India."
Article 19(5) provides the grounds for restricting this right. It states that reasonable restrictions can be imposed on this right for two reasons:
1. In the interests of the general public.
2. For the protection of the interests of any Scheduled Tribe.
Let's analyze the options:
- (A) "In the interest of general public" is an explicit ground mentioned in Article 19(5).
- (C) "In the interest of women's safety" is a specific instance that would fall under the broader category of "interests of the general public."
- (B) "In the interest of political leaders" is not a constitutionally valid ground for restricting fundamental rights.
Since option (A) is the broad, constitutionally specified ground that encompasses other valid specific grounds like (C), it is the most accurate and correct answer.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The Constitution explicitly allows for reasonable restrictions to be imposed on the right of free movement in the interest of the general public.