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Law Commission calls for re-think on sedition clause
News:
- Law commission either to repeal or redefine section 124A of Indian Penal Code.
Important Facts:
2. Commission is center’s top most advisory body on Laws headed by Former Supreme Court Judge.
3. It has said criticism and Dissent of government are essential ingredients of healthy debate.
4. Supreme Court says dissent is the safety valve of democracy.
5. Commission has recommended to repeal section 124A of Indian Penal Code (IPC) or either redefine it.
6. Charges against sedition are imprisonment of 3 years to life term.
7. Important argument of commission against section 124A involved
- It is against the fundamental right of speech and expression.
- It was introduced by British to suppress Indians.
- British themselves have abolished the law.
8. Commission also said frustration over the state cannot be considered as an act of sedition.
9. Person should not be charged for merely expressing thoughts against government and government should be open to valid criticism.
10. Right to criticise one’s own history and the right to offend are rights protected under free speech
11. National security is important but it should not be used to curb the freedom of speech.
