Supreme Court says enforcement of existing laws, not new laws, needed to combat hate speech and crimes
The Supreme Court emphasized the need for better enforcement of existing laws to combat hate speech rather than creating new legislation. The court highlighted that hate speech arises from an exclusionary mindset and undermines societal fraternity. It urged law enforcement to apply current laws effectively to address hate crimes and maintain public order.
- ▪The Supreme Court stated that hate speech stems from an 'us versus them' mindset that corrupts fraternity in society.
- ▪The court declined to enact specific laws against hate speech, emphasizing the enforcement of existing laws instead.
- ▪Justice Nath noted that the judiciary's role is to interpret law, not to legislate, and highlighted the importance of applying current laws effectively.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
The Supreme Court on Wednesday (April 29, 2026) said that hate speech and rumour-mongering stemmed from an “us versus them” mindset and worked to corrupt a sense of fraternity in a diverse society. However, the court declined to direct the enactment of specific laws against hate speech and crimes, instead calling for effective enforcement of existing laws that cover the offence.“Hate speech, at its core, stems from a perception of difference that breeds exclusion, where the ‘other’ is viewed as alien, inferior, or undeserving of equal regard,” a Bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta observed in a 125-page judgment.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Hindu — Top.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Hindu — Top
