Leaders cannot talk arbitrarily, action can be taken on violation of rights: SC

In the investigation of criminal cases, the Supreme Court has given an important decision to curb the controversial words of politicians. The five-judge bench, while giving its verdict, said that the leader or minister himself would be responsible for the misrepresentation. No government can be indirectly responsible for this.

No additional restrictions on freedom of expression

Justice V Ramasubramaniam said that in this way no one can be stopped from making statements but if someone’s statement violates the rights then action can be taken. At the same time, Justice Nagaratna, while emphasizing on Article 51A of the Constitution, said that the leaders should be aware of their duty. He said that they should consider what kind of example they are setting for the citizens.

Pronouncing the verdict, Justice V Ramasubramaniam said, the same restrictions will apply on anyone’s speech which are recorded in the constitution. Apart from this, additional restrictions cannot be imposed. Justice Nagaratna also agreed with this. However, he gave his own verdict. Pronouncing the judgement, Justice Nagaratna said, any minister can give a statement. He said that if the statement of the minister or leader is on the stand of the government, then the government is responsible for it, but if something is said lightly, then it should be considered only as a personal comment.

Justice Nagaratna said that if any additional restrictions are to be imposed on the freedom of expression, it is for the Parliament. Political parties should make rules to ban their leaders or set limits. Justice Nagaratna said that if anyone feels that he has been hurt by the statement of a leader or minister, he can approach the court for civil remedy.