SC Flags Misuse of Free Speech on Social Media
| Topic: GS 2 – Indian Polity: Fundamental Rights |
| Context | |
|
Background
- The Bench of Justices B.V. Nagarathna and K.V. Viswanathan remarked that social media misuse for spreading abusive or divisive content must be curbed.
- The court suggested exploring a framework to regulate harmful social media posts, clarifying that it is not advocating censorship but seeking a mechanism to uphold fraternity, secularism, and the dignity of individuals.
- The observation came while hearing a petition by Wazahat Khan, who sought the consolidation of FIRs filed in multiple states over his social media posts. The FIRs were registered after his complaint led to the arrest of influencer Sharmistha Panoli for her online comments.
IMPORTANCE:
The court’s comments may lead to the formulation of guidelines for responsible online speech, striking a balance between free expression and public order.
