"Free Speech Comes with Responsibility": Supreme Court Flags Rising Hate on Social Media, Appeals for Self-Restraint
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In a significant observation on freedom of speech, the Supreme Court of India on Monday emphasized that citizens must understand the value of free expression and exercise it with self-restraint and accountability. Expressing concern over the growing trend of divisive and hate-filled content on social media, the bench clarified that it does not support censorship, but wants individuals to behave responsibly.
A bench of Justice B.V. Nagarathna and Justice K.V. Viswanathan noted, “No one wants the State to interfere in such matters. That’s why it's essential for citizens to show maturity and avoid making statements that provoke social unrest.”
The court highlighted that freedom of expression is not absolute, and the Constitution already imposes reasonable restrictions. In today's increasingly polarized society, the court urged citizens to speak thoughtfully to preserve social harmony and brotherhood.
These remarks came during a hearing on a petition filed by Wajahat Khan, who faces multiple FIRs across states like Assam, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Haryana for allegedly posting objectionable content on social media against a Hindu deity. Khan claimed the FIRs were retaliatory, as he had earlier complained about communal comments made by a social media influencer.
Considering the gravity of the matter, the court extended Khan’s interim protection from arrest and sought assistance from legal experts on how to maintain a balance between free speech and communal harmony.