Freedom of speech and expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India has been regarded as the second most important right after the right to life of a citizen. However, it is not an absolute right, there are restrictions specified under Article 19(2) of the Constitution of India. Rights come hand in hand with responsibilities.

According to Article 19(2) of the Indian Constitution, the legislature is empowered to impose certain restrictions on free speech under the following heads:

Security of the State Friendly Relations with Foreign States Public Order Decency and Morality Contempt of Court Defamation Incitement to an Offence, and Sovereignty and Integrity of India