WHAT ARE THE TOP FIVE HIGHLIGHTS OF SUPREME COURT OVER SEDITION LAW HOLD?
New Delhi (The Quiver) : On Wednesday, in a historic order , the Supreme Court put a hold on section 124A of the Indian Penal code , known as the Sedition law.
As per the orders of Apex Court , the 162-year-old colonial era law would be kept in abeyance till the central government reconsiders the provision. This order is pronounced by abench comprising Chief Justice of India NV Ramana, Justice Surya Kant and Justice Hima Kohli while hearing a batch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the sedition offence.
WHAT THE 162 YEAR OLD SEDITION LAW STATES ?
Framed under Section 124A IPC, the sedition law states: “Whoever, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards, the government established by law in India, shall be punished with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which a fine may be added; or, with fine.”
What are the top 5 key observations made by the Supreme Court in its order?
LAW NOT IN STEP WITH TIMES
As observed by Supreme Court , Section 124A is not in tune with the current situation of the country . This law was imposed at times when the country was under colonial law. Thus, Centre may reconsider it.
THE ORDER
Present situation of the country demands the provision to put on abeyance.
NO FURTHER PROSECUTION
We hope and expect Centre and State Governments will refrain from registering any FIR, continuing investigation, or taking coercive steps under Section 124A when it is under consideration. It will be appropriate not to use this provision of law till further re-examination is over.
COURT RELIEF
such cases be registered, the parties are at liberty to approach court. The court is to expeditiously dispose of the same.
ON MISUSE
Centre shall be at liberty to issue directives proposed and placed before the court which can be issued to states to prevent misuse of 124A. Directions to continue till further orders.
