Freedom: A Right or a Responsibility?

The first and foremost thing to acknowledge here is that our constitution grants us the "Right to Freedom" as one of our fundamental rights, detailed in Articles 19-22. This right is intrinsic to every individual, and in theory, it bestows upon each person the same degree of freedom. However, in practice, freedom often means different things to different people. Take, for example, a child who desires to venture outside, climb a tree, experience the world, and assert their freedom. When that child climbs too high and falls, getting hurt, they quickly realize that the freedom they sought was not as straightforward as they had imagined—it was not "true" freedom, but what we might call negative freedom. This experience illustrates that what we consider to be freedom is often misunderstood and can lead to unintended consequences.

This is where a critical perspective on the nature of freedom becomes necessary. Freedom, as it is enshrined in the Constitution, is not a blank check that allows people to do whatever they wish without regard to the consequences. The notion of freedom must be balanced with responsibility, awareness, and an understanding of the impact of one's actions on others. Indeed, freedom is a delicate balance, and when it is misunderstood, it can result in outcomes that contradict the very ideals it represents.

In contemporary India, the interpretation of freedom has become muddled. Many people desire absolute freedom in all aspects of their lives without external interference. They want to exercise their right to free speech (Article 19) but, paradoxically, some also wish to silence others whose speech they find disagreeable. This contradiction highlights a deeper issue: freedom is often demanded in a self-serving manner, without regard for the mutual respect and restraint that must accompany it in a functioning society.

This brings us to a broader reflection on what freedom truly means in a modern, pluralistic democracy. In my view, true freedom lies in making choices that are bold yet considerate, actions that do not harm others politically, socially, economically, or emotionally. Real freedom is not just about casting off the chains of oppression; it is about existing in a state where one's actions do not impose new chains on others. It involves a rejection of all forms of enslavement, both obvious and hidden, whether they be physical, psychological, or structural.

The essence of freedom must meet a higher standard—one that encompasses both personal fulfillment and collective well-being. True freedom allows individuals to reach their full potential without artificial barriers, fostering an environment where people can pursue their goals and dreams in harmony with one another. This is a freedom that creates space for both individual happiness and the happiness of others. It is not rooted in selfish desires or one-sided power dynamics but in mutual respect and shared growth.

In conclusion, freedom is a multifaceted concept that requires careful thought, critical examination, and, most importantly, responsibility. It is not simply the absence of external control, but the presence of conditions that enable individuals and society as a whole to thrive. To achieve true freedom, we must move beyond narrow, self-interested interpretations and embrace a more holistic understanding—one that promotes not just our own liberty, but the liberty of all.