Freedom of speech and its restrictions

Freedom of speech and expression is an essential requirement for the functioning of a democratic polity.recognising this article 19(1)( a) of our constitution has guaranteed freedom of speech and expression to every citizen of India.under article 19(1) a) every citizen of India is free to express his views, beliefs and convictions freely without any fear. The mode of expression maybe through speech, writing, printing, picturising , acting,and singing or in any other communicable form.

It may be noted that reasonable limits or restrictions can be imposed on the exercise of the right to freedom of speech and expression under article 19(2) in the interest s of or on the grounds of

1)Security of the state;

Expression of speech which tend to incite or encourage the people to commit violent crimes like murder would be a reasonable ground for the imposition of restrictions on the right to freedom of speech and expression on the ground of security of the state.

2) Public order: 

public order is something more than ordinary maintenance of law and order. It is synonymous with public peace,safety and tranquility. i.e. whether it leads to the disturbances of the current base of the community.

3) Friendly relations with foreign countries, 

ie avoidance of embarrassment to be caused to India through persistent and malicious propaganda against foreign countries.

4) Decency or morality: 

it is not confined to just sexual morality. It should be in conformity with the current standards of behaviours or property. So obscene and indecent conduct and behaviours is one of the valid grounds for imposing restrictions on the freedom of speech.

5)Contempt of court.: 

ie  prevention of making of contemptuous statements against the court, to preserve the dignity and authority of the courts.

6) Defamation :

 prevention of exposing a man to hatred, redicule and contempt.

7) incitement to offence:

 prevention of inciting people to commit serious offences like murder and other violent crimes

8) sovereignity and integrity of India: 

not to permit any person to challenge the integrity or sovereignty of India or to preach cessation of any part of the territory of India.

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