What do you understand by the concept "freedom of speech and expression" ? Does it cover hate speech also ? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression ? Discuss.

The right to freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed by the constitution under Article 19.

However, lately certain actions have begun corroding this right:

→ Sedition (IPC 124A) is an archaic law that is now used to punish even genuine criticism of the government in certain cases.

→ In the parliament, the Anti Defection law has taken away an MP's right to express their opinion about a matter and can only toe the party line.

→ Dissent must be encouraged in classrooms and colleges instead of suppressing it. CJI Patanjali Sastri calls it the foundation of public institutions.

Without this right, essential institutions like the Parliament, educational institutions and society in general, is not able to discuss, debate and evolve.

Therefore, this right must be protected fiercely by the government as well as the judiciary.