State Can Reasonably Restrict Fundamental Rights, J And K To SC.

A bench headed by Justice N.V. Ramana is currently hearing two petitions filed by Anuradha Bhasin, editor of a newspaper, and Ghulam Nabi Azad, senior Congress leader, on the restrictions on freedom of movement, press, etc.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Jammu and Kashmir administration, contended the fundamental rights under Article 19 are not absolute and can be regulated in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, the security of the state and the general public.

“First and foremost fundamental duty is to secure the safety and protection of the citizens in Jammu and Kashmir… after examining the facts on the ground, it is essential to discharge the constitutional obligation to the people of the region.