14 June 2025: The Hindu Editorial Analysis

1. For the sake of free speech and artistic liberty

Source – Editorial, Page 6, The Hindu

Topic: GS Paper 2: Governance, Polity and Constitution

Context

The editorial discusses the Karnataka government’s decision to remove a controversial play from school curriculum and its implications on freedom of expression and artistic liberty.

Background:

• Karnataka’s textbook revision panel dropped the play “Malegalalli Madumagalu” (Bride of the Mountains) citing concerns about “inappropriate content.”

• The move has triggered debates about censorship, educational autonomy, and artistic freedom.

Key Issues:

• Freedom of Speech: The Constitution (Article 19(1)(a)) guarantees freedom of speech and expression, which includes artistic expression.

• Reasonable Restrictions: Article 19(2) allows restrictions in the interest of morality, decency, public order, etc.

• Role of State: The state must ensure that censorship does not stifle diverse views in a pluralistic society.

Concerns Raised:

• Arbitrary censorship threatens democratic values.

• Undermines educational diversity and literary exposure.

• Sets precedent for politically motivated textbook changes.

Conclusion/Way Forward:

• Encourage inclusive dialogue on curriculum design.

• Independent academic bodies should vet educational content.

• Safeguard against political interference in cultural narratives.

Practice Question: Discuss the constitutional provisions relating to freedom of expression in India. How should governments balance artistic liberty with public morality in educational content? (GS2 | 250 words | 15 marks)

2. Seeing the law as a tool for reform

Source – Editorial, Page 6, The Hindu

Topic: GS Paper 2: Governance, GS Paper 4: Ethics

Context

This piece reflects on the judicial interpretation of laws concerning sex work and the need for legislative reforms based on evolving societal values.

Content:

Background:

• Recent judicial pronouncements have questioned the morality-based legal approach to sex work.

• Push for decriminalization of voluntary adult sex work.

Key Highlights:

• Judicial Activism: Courts have sought to protect sex workers’ dignity and human rights.

• Social Justice: Legal reform should prioritize welfare, healthcare, and social inclusion.

• Criticism of Current Law: The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act criminalizes many aspects indirectly affecting sex workers’ rights.

Ethical Dimension:

• Recognizing sex work as work: Human dignity vs. societal morality.

• Decriminalization fosters safety and reduces exploitation.

Way Forward:

• Comprehensive legal reforms aligned with constitutional values.

• Consultation with stakeholders including sex workers.

• Social support systems for rehabilitation and dignity restoration.

Practice Question: Do you think decriminalizing sex work in India aligns with the ideals of human dignity and constitutional morality? Discuss with reference to recent judicial trends. (GS2 | 250 words | 15 marks)

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