Supreme Court Urges Immediate Committee Formation To Address Hate Speech Cases

In a bid to foster harmony and understanding among diverse communities, the Supreme Court made an impactful move on Friday by urging the Central Government to establish a dedicated committee tasked with investigating instances of hate speech. The apex court's proactive stance comes in response to a plea highlighting "blatant hate speeches" that have incited calls for violence and the social and economic isolation of a specific community during rallies across various states. Tragically, the recent communal clashes in Haryana, which claimed six lives, underscored the urgency of addressing this pressing issue.

A bench comprising of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and SVN Bhatti directed Additional Solicitor General K M Nataraj, representing the Centre, to expedite the formation of the committee and provide pertinent information by August 18, according to PTI. 

Echoing the need for cohesiveness and mutual respect among communities, the bench emphasized, 'Harmony and comity between communities are vital. Every community shares the responsibility to uphold these values. Hate speech is a detrimental concern that cannot be condoned by anyone.'

The court's proactive approach extends to the petitioner, journalist Shaheen Abdullah, who has been directed to compile and submit comprehensive evidence, including videos, to the designated nodal officers, a directive stemming from the court's October 21, 2022 judgement. The journalist's application cites the Supreme Court's August 2 directive, which firmly declared, 'We hope and trust that the state governments and police will ensure that no hate speeches irrespective of the identity are made against any community and there is no physical violence or damage to the properties.'

Recognizing the toxic impact of hate speeches on societal harmony, the Supreme Court underscored its commitment to preserving peace by affirming that where necessary, ample police or paramilitary personnel would be deployed, bolstered by the vigilant use of CCTV cameras and video recording in sensitive areas.