SC Calls For Action Against Hate Speech “On This Side Or The Other"

New Delhi, August 19 (TNA) The Supreme Court has made a terse comment on those who give hate speech. The SC added that strict action should be taken against such people wherever the hate speech is given and against all those who spread hate speech "on this side or the other".

Many times it has been seen that a small incident that spreads due to hate speeches takes a big form. Today's era is of social media, which is full of fake news, hate statements go viral every day. We saw its effect during the recent violence in Nuh-Gurugram in Delhi-NCR region. But now the Supreme Court has made a strong comment regarding hate speeches.

The Supreme Court said so while hearing petitions seeking directions to curb hate speeches in various states. In the petition, it has also been said about banning Hindu organizations. A lawyer claimed before the bench that the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), a political party in Kerala, had organized a rally in the state in July where slogans like "death to Hindus" were raised.

And the Supreme Court said that we are very clear. One way or the other, they should be treated equally and the law will take its course. If anyone indulges in anything that we know as hate speech, they will be dealt with as per the law. This is something on which we have already expressed our opinion.

The Supreme Court said that due to paucity of time, the bench would not be able to hear the matter further today as it has already listed the petitions challenging the Bihar caste survey. All cases of hate speech will be taken up for hearing next Friday, the court said.

The Supreme Court told Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj, appearing for the Centre, that it had read the 2018 judgment in Tehseen Poonawalla's case and the guidelines issued by this court. I hope the guidelines are being strictly followed. Advocate Nizam Pasha, representing Shaheen Abdullah, one of the key petitioners, said he hoped hatred had no side.