NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday suggested that authorities pursue defamation proceedings against individuals who resort to abusive slogans during demonstrations, emphasizing that the right to protest does not include the right to malign reputations.
A bench headed by the Chief Justice noted that while peaceful protest is a fundamental right, crossing the line into targeted personal attacks using abusive language undermines the democratic process.
Protecting Democratic Discourse
"The court also urged young protesters to be mindful of the language they use during demonstrations across the country," the bench observed. "Debate and dissent are essential, but they must remain within the boundaries of civil discourse."
The remarks came during the hearing of a petition related to recent widespread protests where several prominent figures were targeted with derogatory chants. The court advised that the affected individuals have civil remedies available and can pursue defamation cases to hold the offenders accountable.