What is our understanding of freedom? A concept fundamental to our existence and well-being should ideally, and logically, hold critical importance. We see, however, that in our country the understanding and practice of these freedoms has largely failed to turn into a meaningful debate, often being marked by scepticism bordering social, and at times, legal offence.

This week in our special report we ask questions. And as is the motivation behind most questions, if not all, we seek to find answers. From constitutional provisions of freedoms to social and legal perceptions and practical implementation, we explore the ways in which the system has ensured the provision or manipulation of rights enshrined in the constitution. These rights are fundamental not only for the individual but also for the collective, to ensure a just and democratic society. We try to understand the scope of freedoms as guaranteed in our constitution and how much of those are granted, not as a privilege but as a right.

So we ask questions and we hope to find answers that steer us in the right direction, that allow us to face the reality we often turn away from. In the process, we hope we learn new lessons that help us to ask new questions.