Consider the following statements: No one can be compelled to sing the National Anthem since
1. it will be violative of the Right to freedom of speech and expression.
2. it will be violative of the Right to freedom of conscience and practise and propagation of religion.
3. there is no legal provision obliging any one to sing the National Anthem.
Of these statements
A
I and II are correct
B
II and III are correct
C
I, II and III are correct
D
None is correct
Correct Answer: Option C
Explanation
1. The question evaluates the reasons why compelling someone to sing the National Anthem might be considered unconstitutional or lack legal backing.
2. Statement 1: Compulsion to sing could violate the Right to freedom of speech and expression (Article 19(1)(a)), which includes the right to remain silent. This statement is generally considered correct in this context (Bijoe Emmanuel vs State of Kerala case).
3. Statement 2: For individuals whose religious beliefs forbid singing praises to anyone other than God (like Jehovah's Witnesses in the Bijoe Emmanuel case), compulsion would violate the Right to freedom of conscience and practise and propagation of religion (Article 25). This statement is correct.
4. Statement 3: There is no specific legal provision (law) that obliges anyone to *sing* the National Anthem. The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, penalizes disrespect but mandates standing respectfully, not singing. This statement is correct.
5. Since all three statements provide valid reasons why compulsion is not enforceable, all three are correct.