Justice Nagarathna Emphasizes Importance of Freedom of Expression in Democracy
Freedom of expression vital in a democracy: Justice Nagarathna
Image: Hindustan Times
Supreme Court Justice BV Nagarathna highlighted the critical role of freedom of speech and expression in a democracy during the launch of Indira Jaising's book 'The Constitution Is My Home'. She underscored the necessity of allowing diverse thoughts and perspectives to flourish, particularly in the context of women's rights and marginalized communities in India.
- 01Justice Nagarathna emphasized the significance of Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and expression.
- 02Indira Jaising's book is described as a memoir, feminist testimony, and constitutional reflection, highlighting her advocacy for justice.
- 03Jaising discussed the Supreme Court's May 18 ruling questioning a previous decision regarding the denial of bail to activists Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam.
- 04The Supreme Court's observation stressed that the state must ensure a fair trial within a reasonable timeframe.
- 05Chief Justice Surya Kant sent his congratulations via video message, unable to attend due to an urgent meeting.
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During the launch of 'The Constitution Is My Home', Supreme Court Justice BV Nagarathna emphasized the vital role of freedom of speech and expression, as guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution, in a democracy. She stated that it is essential to allow divergent thoughts and perspectives to be expressed, especially in today's socio-political climate. Justice Nagarathna praised senior advocate Indira Jaising for her relentless advocacy for women's rights and the constitutional rights of marginalized groups, describing her new book as multifaceted—serving as a memoir, feminist testimony, and constitutional reflection. In a discussion led by journalist Sreenivasan Jain, Jaising addressed a recent Supreme Court ruling that criticized a previous decision denying bail to activists involved in the 2020 northeast Delhi riots, asserting that the state must provide a fair trial in a timely manner. Although Chief Justice Surya Kant was unable to attend the event due to an urgent meeting, he conveyed his congratulations through a video message, underscoring the event's significance.
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Justice Nagarathna's remarks highlight the ongoing importance of protecting freedom of expression, which impacts activists, legal practitioners, and marginalized communities in India.
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