Sedition is once again the subject of debate as the Supreme Court Court is hearing pleas challenging it. The pleas filed by the Editors Guild of India and Major General (Retired) S.G. Vombatkere state that the law causes a ‘chilling effect’ on free speech and is an unreasonable restriction on free expression, a fundamental right.
The apex court had first issued a notice to the Centre in July 2021 about the challenge to the legality of Section 124A Indian Penal Code (IPC), which criminalises sedition. Later, on April 27, 2022, Supreme Court fixed May 5 for the final hearing of the petitions, stating that it will not brook any delay in the form of requests for adjournment. On May 2, the Centre stated that its draft reply is ready but is awaiting approval from ‘Competent Authority’.
As sedition comes under fire in the Supreme Court, here is a brief look at the law, punishment for it and its usage by governments.
