Editorial: Curb the hate mongers

Promoting peaceful co-existence of different sects and social classes is crucial to India’s global image

Hyderabad: The Supreme Court’s latest directive on hate speech is a welcome development at a time when the country is torn apart by polarized politics. The court has directed all states and federal territories to register cases against those who make hate speech without waiting for a formal complaint to be lodged. Those who spread hatred pose a great threat to the secular fabric of the country. The much-touted slogan of the NDA government “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” will mean nothing if this divisive factor is not curbed. Promoting peaceful coexistence among different sects and social classes is crucial to India’s global image as its voice becomes increasingly credible in diplomatic and geopolitical affairs. Administrative bias against minorities on the one hand and prejudice spread through social media platforms on the other is spoiling the atmosphere. This situation should not be allowed to continue. Judicial intervention at the highest level is expected to lead to effective enforcement of laws prohibiting the spread of hate. In October, the Supreme Court directed the governments of Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Uttarakhand to crack down on those who make hate speech, saying they were appalling for a religiously neutral state. The courts have now asked the government to take suo motu action and register the case even if no complaints are received, and initiate proceedings against violators under Sections 153A, 153B and 295A and 505 of the IPC.

Going a step further, the SEC made it clear that any hesitation to follow this direction would be considered a contempt of court and appropriate action would be taken against the erring officer. The court’s direction that contempt proceedings can be brought against officials who fail to act on hate speech is indeed a welcome move. This rap should send a strong message of deterrence by prompting law enforcement officials to swiftly punish the guilty. More recently, rhetoric of intolerance inspired by Hinduism has deepened social divisions. While there is no shortage of laws and court decisions mandating the registration of FIRs in hate crime cases, those who publicly incite violence in the name of religion often go unpunished. The 267th Law Commission Report also recommended that hate speech be criminalized under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). In a disturbing trend, hate-mongers often enjoy political asylum. In addition to violating the basic principles of the Constitution, these remarks are a mockery of the laws of the country. Hate peddlers should have no place in a secular India where everyone has an equal right to practice and spread his or her beliefs freely. Anyone who believes in the Constitution must resolutely oppose attempts to ridicule other religions and create social disputes.