Critical Analysis of Right to Speech and Expression in Lieu of National Security

We have certain basic rights as citizens of India. Fundamental Rights are enshrined in the Indian Constitution under Part III. Freedom of speech encloses the right to express and the right to access information. The Freedom to express ideas and opinions without hindrance plays an important role in the development of society. Freedom of speech is guaranteed not only by the Constitution of India but also by various International Conventions. This right is one of the basic elements for a healthy and open-minded democracy because it allows people to freely participate in the social and political happenings of the country. But the government validates undue abridgement of the right to speech and expression on the grounds of national security and terrorism which includes mishandling of this right, which encourages troublesome relation and pressure between national security and fundamental rights. This article deals with meaning, national security and grounds of restrictions for freedom of speech and expression guaranteed under article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution. It also deals with the laws of freedom of speech and expression in relation with the national security.