Forging Ahead

In the vibrant tapestry of India’s democracy, a prominent thread stands out: the cherished value of absolute freedom of speech. Empowered by a constitutional right enshrined in Article 19 of the Indian Constitution, this freedom serves as a cornerstone of our thriving democratic society by fostering transparency and accountability, helping voice concerns, and holding those in power accountable.

Fundamental and unassailable, absolute freedom of speech grants the unrestricted expression of ideas, transcending censorship and backlash. It empowers citizens to structure policies, contest the status quo, and propel transformative shifts. While its accessibility was almost non-existent before our independence, it now stands as a linchpin in cultivating contentment and individual agency, fostering a vibrant society in contemporary India.

Historically, expression of freedom of speech was confined to traditional forms such as print media and the spoken word. However, the digital revolution has transformed the expression landscape, offering new avenues such as social media platforms, blogs, podcasts, and online forums. These democratize communication, giving voice to the voiceless and enabling citizens to contribute to public discourse.

The digital age brings opportunities and challenges for freedom of speech. While technological advancements expand our reach, they also expose us to potential rights infringements. For example, inch-by-inch, the concept of hate speech has evolved from an effort to protect the populace to an instrument of control wantonly wielded by governments and certain sections of society to achieve their designated agenda with almost zero accountability. Hence, vigilance is crucial to safeguard our individuality and privacy online.

Freedom of speech is both a right and a duty. This cherished freedom imbues societal change by challenging norms, advocating justice, and propelling development. Yet, responsible exercise is essential. In an era of rampant misinformation and hate speech, responsible expression involves respecting differing viewpoints, fact checking, and maintaining civil discourse. These practices enable the exchange of ideas and nurture dissent, emboldening the foundations of a healthy democracy.

Author: Akshat Tarush and Aditya Joshi

About the Author: Students of IPM02

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