Q1. Which Article of the Constitution protects the “external dimension” of the right to movement (i.e., right to travel abroad)?
- Article 14
- Article 19
- Article 21
- Article 25
Correct Option: 3. Article 21.
Explanation: The external aspect of movement — right to leave or return to India — is protected under Article 21 (right to life and personal liberty).
Article 19(1)(d) only protects internal movement within India.
Q2. In the context of Article 19(1)(a), which of the following statements is correct regarding prior restraint (pre-censorship)?
- Pre-censorship is allowed by executive notification only.
- Pre-censorship is allowed under all circumstances.
- Pre-censorship is prohibited for all media.
- Pre-censorship is constitutionally permitted only under reasonable restrictions mentioned in Article 19(2).
Correct Option: 4. Pre-censorship is constitutionally permitted only under reasonable restrictions mentioned in Article 19(2).
Explanation: Pre-censorship can be justified only if it falls within the enumerated grounds in Article 19(2) (e.g., public order, national security), and it must pass the test of reasonableness.
Q3. Which one of the following freedoms under Article 19 has been interpreted by courts to include the “right to information”?
- Freedom of profession
- Freedom of movement
- Freedom of speech and expression
- Freedom of assembly
Correct Option: 3. Freedom of speech and expression
Explanation: The right to information has been read into Article 19(1)(a) by the courts, as a component of the freedom of speech and expression. Citizens must be informed to express themselves meaningfully.
Q4. Under Article 20(3), the protection against self-incrimination applies to:
- Criminal proceedings only
- All legal proceedings
- Civil proceedings and criminal proceedings
- Administrative proceedings
Correct Option: 1. Criminal proceedings only
Explanation: Article 20(3) guarantees that no accused in a criminal case shall be compelled to be a witness against himself.
It does not apply to civil or administrative matters, nor to compelled production of physical evidence.
Q5. Which of the following is not a valid purpose for restricting the freedom of assembly under Article 19(1)(b)?
- Maintenance of public order
- Protection of tribal land rights
- Sovereignty and integrity of India
- Regulation of traffic and safety
Correct Option: 2. Protection of tribal land rights
Explanation: Freedom of assembly under Article 19(1)(b) can be restricted only for public order and sovereignty/integrity of India.
Protection of tribal rights is a valid restriction for residence/movement, not for assembly.