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.

A) Stricter Regulation: Justified :- eg: Social Media Intermediary codes 2021 (1) Propagation of fake news leads to societal tensions eg: Deep fakes of influential leaders asking for violence. (2) Violation of basic human dignity through reverse sharing, pornographic content and gore videos. eg: Supreme Court guidelines on managing child pornography as CSAM – expand scope. (3) Cases of cyber bullying, trolling and cyber threats. B) However, regulation = threat to freedom of speech & expression: (1) SC in Amuradha Bhasiri case said that right to internet is a fundamental right under Article 19(1). (2) Online media encourages democratization of talent eg: ability to showcase skills by marginalized section free from traditional barriers. (3) Inhibits creativity as regulation leads to a chilling effect. (4) Regulation powers can be misused eg: curbing opposition views.