Examine the elements of Satyagraha employed during the 20th-century
Indian freedom struggle in light of their alignment with the Right to
Protest granted by the Indian constitution as mentioned in the passage.
Read the following excerpt about the Right to Protest in India and answer the question that follows. The Constitution of India guarantees the fundamental right to protest, which is derived from the broader rights of freedom of speech and expression, and freedom to assemble peacefully. However, this right is subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of India’s sovereignty. Violent actions during protests are in violation of citizens’ fundamental duties, emphasising that the right to protest encompasses only peaceful demonstrations.
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Elements of Satyagraha aligning with the Right to Protest in the Indian Constitution:
1. Nonviolent Protest: Satyagraha advocated nonviolence, aligning with the Constitution’s emphasis on peaceful demonstrations.
2. Expression of Dissent: It allowed dissent through peaceful means, akin to the Constitution’s guarantee of freedom of speech and expression.
3. Peaceful Assembly: Satyagraha involved mass gatherings, reflecting the right to assemble peacefully as granted by the Constitution.
4. Citizen’s Duty: Emphasized non-violent actions as a fundamental duty, resonating with the passage’s emphasis on peaceful protests aligned with citizens’ duties.
5. Respect for Sovereignty: Aimed for independence while respecting national sovereignty, similar to the Constitution’s recognition of reasonable restrictions in the interest of sovereignty.
Satyagraha, through its principles of nonviolence, expression of dissent, peaceful assembly, citizen duties, and respect for sovereignty, aligns with the Right to Protest enshrined in the Indian Constitution.