Constitutionally impermissible to vilify any community: SC judge, Pg2

Key Highlights:

• Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan stated that vilifying or denigrating any community is constitutionally impermissible.
• The statement was made during the disposal of a petition challenging the film title "Ghooskhor Pandit," after the director agreed to change it.
• The court emphasized the constitutional objective of fraternity and the fundamental duty to foster brotherhood.
• Freedom of speech is not absolute and is subject to reasonable restrictions, as per the court.

Detailed Insights:

• The court highlighted that fraternity is crucial for realizing equality and harmonizing diverse segments of society in India.
• Targeting any community based on religion, language, caste, or region is a violation of the Constitution, especially for public figures.
• The Supreme Court has previously addressed freedom of speech and expression in the context of films, emphasizing the right to exhibit a film once certified by the statutory board.
• Preventing the exhibition of a film, once certified, can lead to anarchy and cripple the right to freedom of speech and expression.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Fraternity: The principle of brotherhood and unity, promoting a sense of common identity and shared interests among people.
• Freedom of Speech: The right to express one's opinions and ideas without censorship or restraint, subject to reasonable restrictions.
• Constitutional Dharma: The moral and ethical duties derived from the Constitution, emphasizing respect for fellow citizens and national unity.