Freedom of trade, commerce and intercourse
Quick Summary (TL;DR)
Article 301 (Freedom of trade, commerce and intercourse): Guarantees free trade, commerce, and movement of goods across state borders within India (Part XIII).
In Simple Citizen Words
Article 301 ('Freedom of trade, commerce and intercourse') in Part XIII (Articles 301–307) ensures the economic unity of India. While Article 301 declares that trade, commerce, and intercourse throughout the territory of India shall be free, Articles 302–307 regulate when Parliament or a State Legislature may impose non-discriminatory restrictions in the public interest. Specifically: Subject to the other provisions of this Part, trade, commerce and intercourse throughout the territory of India shall be free.
Key Constitutional Provisions
Constitutional Mandate (Art. 301): Directly codifies the legal rule for 'Freedom of trade, commerce and intercourse' under Part XIII
Sets a direct, self-contained constitutional command binding on public authorities across India
Any administrative or legislative action violating Article 301 can be challenged before the High Court (Art. 226) or Supreme Court
Exceptions & Reasonable Restrictions
Under Article 304(b), any State Bill imposing reasonable restrictions on inter-state trade in the public interest requires the previous sanction of the President (Atiabari Tea Co. & Jindal Stainless rulings).
Why This Matters in Daily Life
Allows farmers, traders, transporters, and businesses to sell and move goods across all 28 States and 8 UTs as one common national market.
Want deeper legal & historical context? Explore the official Bare Act or Supreme Court Precedents & CAD Debates: