Denying women the right to practice a profession solely based on gender.
Explanation
Article 19 of the Indian Constitution guarantees six democratic freedoms to citizens. However, these rights are not absolute. The State is empowered to impose reasonable restrictions on the exercise of these rights based on specific grounds enumerated in Clauses (2) to (6) of Article 19. Any restriction outside these specified grounds or one that is arbitrary is considered unconstitutional.
Option Analysis
- Restricting speech that incites violence. Restricting speech that incites violence: This is a valid restriction. Under Article 19(2), the State can restrict freedom of speech and expression in the interests of "public order" or the "security of the State." Incitement to violence directly threatens public order.
- Restricting assembly to prevent a breach of public peace. Restricting assembly to prevent a breach of public peace: This is a valid restriction. Article 19(3) allows the State to impose reasonable restrictions on the right to assemble peacefully and without arms in the interests of "public order" or the "sovereignty and integrity of India."
- Denying women the right to practice a profession solely based on gender. Denying women the right to practice a profession solely based on gender: This is NOT a reasonable restriction. While Article 19(6) allows restrictions on the right to practice any profession (Article 19(1)(g)) in the interests of the general public or regarding professional/technical qualifications, it does not permit exclusion based on gender. Furthermore, such an action violates Article 15(1), which explicitly prohibits discrimination by the State on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
- Restricting speech that amounts to defamation. Restricting speech that amounts to defamation: This is a valid restriction. "Defamation" is explicitly listed as a specific ground for restricting freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(2).
Key Takeaway: Reasonable restrictions on Article 19 freedoms must be based on the specific grounds listed in the Constitution (e.g., sovereignty, public order, morality, defamation). Discrimination solely on the grounds of sex is prohibited under Article 15 and cannot be justified as a reasonable restriction under Article 19.