Supreme Court's Stand on Hate Speech and Fundamental Rights

The Supreme Court has asserted that hate speech should not be confused with a fundamental right. It plans to limit any freedoms that enable speech intended to demean individuals or communities.

Case Overview

• The case in question involves a plea against stand-up comedians accused of making insensitive jokes about persons with disabilities.
• A division bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh took cognizance of the matter.

Legal Actions and Notices

• Notices were issued to comedians Samay Raina, Vipul Goyal, among others.
• The Mumbai police commissioner was instructed to ensure the comedians appear in court on the next hearing date.
• Failure to appear would result in coercive actions against them.

Role of Influencers and Freedom of Speech

• Senior Advocate Aparajita Singh highlighted the influence of comedians on the youth.
• Singh argued that freedom of speech does not justify defaming vulnerable individuals.

Judicial Response and Future Measures

• Justice Kant emphasized the need for "remedial, curative, and preventive" strategies against degrading remarks.
• There is an intention to establish guidelines on handling such issues.
• Attorney General R Venkataramani was asked to assist due to the issue's sensitivity and importance.