As originally framed in 1950, Article 19(1) of the Constitution guaranteed how many freedoms to citizens?

When the Constitution came into force, Article 19(1) guaranteed seven freedoms to citizens. One of them was later deleted, so the clause now guarantees six.

The freedoms that remain today:

• Freedom of speech and expression.
• Freedom to assemble peaceably and without arms.
• Freedom to form associations, unions or co-operative societies.
• Freedom to move freely throughout the territory of India.
• Freedom to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India.
• Freedom to practise any profession, or to carry on any occupation, trade or business.

The deleted freedom:

• The original sub-clause (f) guaranteed the right to acquire, hold and dispose of property.
• It was deleted by the 44th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1978.
• Property then became only a legal right under Article 300A in Part XII, so it is no longer a Fundamental Right.

Who enjoys these freedoms:

Only citizens of India can claim the Article 19 freedoms. Foreigners and companies cannot claim them, although shareholders who are citizens can sometimes approach the court.

Reasonable restrictions:

• Each freedom can be limited by reasonable restrictions on specified grounds, such as the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, public order, decency or morality.
• The courts decide whether a restriction is reasonable.

During an emergency:

• When a National Emergency is declared on the ground of war or external aggression, the Article 19 freedoms are automatically suspended.
• They are not suspended when the emergency is declared on the ground of armed rebellion.

Why not the other options?

• ✗Five and eight do not match the Article at any stage.
• ✗Good to know
• ✗Six is the present number, not the original one.