The right to freedom and its limits

Choose four of the rights and freedoms most important to you. Make tick marks against your choice.

1. The freedom to wear whatever you want
2. The right to be treated equally whatever your gender, race, religion etc.
3. The right to keep your personal information such as your salary or your date of birth private
4. The freedom of the media to report on any topic and to express opinions
5. The freedom to express your personal opinions and ideas publicly
6. The freedom to choose what religion you follow
7. The right to a fair trial and to due process, where the law must respect all your legal rights

Now, think of this:

A. What about doctors and teachers? Do you think they should be allowed to wear anything they want? Why?

B. Many leaders feel that it is right to curb the rights of a minority, such as people who are suspected of terrorist offences, to protect the majority of people. Do you think they are correct? Or are they encouraging exploitation?

C. Increased opportunities have led to increased freedom for women and children. Look at the list below and discuss if you think this is true for all parts of India? Why or why not?

• Increased access to education
• Improved financial situation
• Better access to health care
• Better employment opportunities
• Increased equality and less discrimination