Book hate speech cases even without complaint: SC

Subject :Polity

Sec: Constitution

Concept :

Calling hate speech a serious offence that can affect the secular fabric of India, the Supreme Court directed all states to suo moto register cases of such offences even if there is no formal complaint.

Key highlights of the SC Order

Any hesitation to act will be viewed as contempt of the top court and appropriate action will be taken against the erring officers.
All states and UTs shall ensure that immediately as and when any speech or any action takes place which attracts offences such as Sections 153A, 153B and 295A and 505 of the IPC, suo motu action will be taken to register cases even if no complaint is forthcoming and proceed against the offenders in accordance with law.

Legal Provisions of Hate Speech in India:

Article 21: Responsible speech is the essence of the liberty granted under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Article 19(2): It guarantees freedom of speech and expression to all citizens of India.
Exception: Hate speech has not been defined in any law in India. However, legal provisions in certain legislations prohibit select forms of speech as an exception to freedom of speech.

Legislations around Hate speech: The Indian Penal Code, 1860

Section 124A IPC penalises sedition
Section 153A IPC penalises ‘promotion of enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc., and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony’.
Section 153B IPC penalises ‘imputations, and assertions prejudicial to national integration.
Section 295A IPC penalises ‘deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage the religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs.
Section 298 IPC penalises ‘uttering, words, etc., with deliberate intent to wound the religious feelings of any person’.
Section 505(1) and (2) IPC penalises the publication or circulation of any statement, rumour or report causing public mischief and enmity, hatred or ill-will between classes.