In a landmark judgment today the Supreme Court in declaring that Section 66A of Information Technology Act is unconstitutional has once again reiterated that Freedom of Speech and Expression can by no means be compromised.
Section 66A was being grossly misused by police at the behest of politicians to arrest persons posting on social networking sites critical comments on socio- political issues and political leaders. Ironically while in the Opposition the BJP showed all humbleness and masqueraded around with all good values but once in power their arrogance hit the hilt. We have all been witness to democratic values being trampled on and voices of dissent ruthlessly crushed. On how most of the Press is being muzzled and manipulated less said the better. People today are scared of expressing their opinion for fear of being targeted or facing retribution from the powers to be. The government has become very intolerant to public criticism and the media is obviously under intense pressure to go soft if not toe the government line. Every citizen certainly needs to be vigilant more so in current times when the voice of the Opposition stands decimated. It is incumbent on every citizen to be a watchdog and keep the erring authorities under a tight leash. Aires Rodrigues Advocate High Court C/G-2, Shopping Complex Ribandar Retreat, Ribandar – Goa – 403006 Mobile No: 9822684372 Office Tel No: (0832) 2444012 Email: [email protected] Or [email protected] You can also reach me on Facebook.com/ AiresRodrigues Twitter@rodrigues_aires
