What do you understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss.

Theme

T79 Freedom of speech & expression: hate speech, films, Section 66A

What UPSC asks in this theme

UPSC asks about freedom of speech vs hate speech, films and censorship, and Section 66A of the IT Act.

What to cover

• Art 19(1)(a) and 19(2)
• Shreya Singhal case
• Hate speech laws
• Film certification

Writing the answer

• Cite cases; show balance between liberty and restrictions

These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 2 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.