The Hindu editorial on 28/08/2025 condemns the Supreme Court directive to the Government to regulate social media as a dangerous move that invites misuse. It empowers the executive that is already known for weaponizing free speech to further encroach upon the constitutional rights of citizens, tapping into the legal loopholes. Prompted by a case against social media influencers for producing dark humor about disabled persons, the instruction by the court seems to be more problematic as it equips the state to limit individual freedom, creating a deceptive trap of imagined righteousness. Resolving such issues through executive rulemaking rather than the judicial process creates a chilling effect on free speech, leading to the political misuse of power, the weaponization of state agencies, and the constant monitoring of public, filmmakers, and journalists. The existing legal provisions to punish hate speech and inciting violence against minorities are powerful avenues to question the legitimate wrongs in a court of law. The editorial concludes reminding the court of its institutional role to protect the constitutional rights instead of acting like an unchallenged lord.
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