Hate speech: SC ordered Maharashtra govt to respond to contempt petition

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court ordered the Maharashtra government to respond to a contempt petition filed against it for failing to control hate speeches by rightwing organisations despite court orders.

The matter was scheduled for hearing on April 28 by a bench of Justices KM Joseph and BV Nagarathna, who stated, “Hate is a vicious circle, and the State will have to initiate action.” Shaheen Abdullah of Kerala filed a contempt petition in response to a news report claiming that “at least 50 rallies were held in the State in the last four months where hate speeches were allegedly made.”

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court granted applications filed by Hindu Samaj citing incidents in which hate speeches were directed at Hindus.

During the hearing, Justice KM Joseph told Hindu Samaj’s counsel, “The most important consideration is dignity. Some statements are made, such as go to Pakistan… they are the ones who chose this country. They are your blood relatives.”

“We were all left with a legacy. What exactly is tolerance? Tolerance is not putting up with someone, but rather accepting differences “According to Justice Joseph.
“If you want to be a superpower, there must be rule of law,” Justice Joseph added.

“All sides were making these statements and asked will the court now take contempt of court action against all Indians,” Justice Nagarathna said of the hate speeches.

According to Justice BV Nagarathna, “What are our plans? Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Atal Bihari Vajpayee were great orators. People from the surrounding countryside used to come to hear them. These speeches are now being delivered by people who have nothing to say.”