Question Q.14GS2GS2

Is the growing demand for stricter regulation of online content justified, or does it pose a threat to the right to freedom of speech and expression? Examine in light of recent judicial pronouncements. (15 marks, 250 words)

Main Body

India has about 720 million internet users, shifting towards us being in age of dataism. This requires a balance between free speech and ethical regulation.

Growing demand of strict regulation:

Reason:

1Instances of Hate speech - use of social media for propaganda. Communalism, WhatsApp used during Delhi Riots (2020) Youth radicalize

2Misinformation and fake news - leads to polarisation and panic

3Misuse of AI - instances of deepfake

4Concerns of National security - use of telegram by ISIS for recruitment (from Kerala)

Unconfirmed foreign influence - role during Farmer protests (2021)

Strict regulation threatening freedom of speech:

1Vague uncodified provisions - IT Rules 2021 - undefined terms like 'in good taste'

2Risk of interpretation - excessive censorship in sight of 'moral policing'

3Curbs dissent - journalists, comedians booked and jailed

4Oversurveillance - conflicts with Right to privacy (Article 21)

5Risk of political control - arbitrary takedown of posts, vides by Ministry of Information Broadcast

Way Ahead:

Shreya Singhal - Independent oversight mechanism, Keele High Court authorized fight to Internet under Article 21 - clear, codified laws, Data Protection Act 2023 for transparency & grievance redressal

Participatory and right based approach must be followed for upholding free speech, privacy and accountability in digital age

212 words6 paragraphs

Examiner score

1.3/10

Open original scan

Page 31

Topper

DIVYA

AIR 1822025

Subject & Paper

GS2GS2

Topic

Indian Constitution - Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure

Fundamental Rights

Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression

Writing Stats

212

Total words

Paragraphs