July 14, 2025

The Supreme Court of India recently underscored the significance of self-regulation and understanding the essence of freedom of speech and expression during a hearing on a plea concerning offensive social media posts. The court deliberated on the importance of grasping the value of freedom of speech and expression, emphasizing the need for individuals to regulate their own conduct. This emphasis on self-regulation comes in light of a case regarding offensive posts on social media platforms, where the court is contemplating the formulation of guidelines to oversee such posts. The court's stance stresses the necessity of addressing divisive tendencies and maintaining social harmony without opting for stringent censorship measures. By focusing on self-regulation and promoting responsible use of freedom of speech, the court aims to strike a balance between upholding fundamental rights and preventing the spread of inflammatory content that may incite discord in society. The guidelines under consideration seek to establish a framework that discourages harmful online behavior without impinging on individuals' right to express themselves freely. This approach reflects a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in regulating online content while safeguarding democratic principles. Overall, the court's emphasis on self-regulation and a nuanced approach to regulating social media posts underscores the importance of exercising freedom of speech responsibly in a digital age.

Read More at Economictimes →

Tags: Supreme court, Freedom of speech, Social media, Regulation, Censorship,