The right to form associations and unions is a right

The right to form associations or unions is a fundamental right guaranteed under Article 19(1)(c) of the Constitution of India [1]. This right is specifically categorized under the 'Right to Freedom' [2]. Crucially, the freedoms listed under Article 19, including the right to form associations, unions, or cooperative societies, are guaranteed exclusively to the citizens of India and not to foreigners or legal entities like companies (though their members may be citizens) [4]. This right includes the freedom to form political parties, trade unions, clubs, and organizations [1]. While it is a fundamental freedom, it is not absolute; the State can impose reasonable restrictions on grounds of sovereignty, integrity of India, public order, or morality [2]. Unlike Article 14 (Equality) or Article 21 (Life), which apply to 'any person', Article 19 rights are reserved for 'citizens only' [3].

Sources

1. [1] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 8: Fundamental Rights > Table 8.5 Rights under Article 19 and the Grounds of Restrictions > p. 87
2. [2] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 8: Fundamental Rights > III Protection of Six Rights > p. 85
3. [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fundamental_rights_in_India
4. [3] https://www.mea.gov.in/images/pdf1/part3.pdf