Where Have We Reached In The Name Of Religion In The 21st Century: Supreme Court’s Remark On Hate Speech Case
New Delhi, 21st October 2022: The Supreme Court made a strong remark on Friday during the hearing of the matter related to hate speech. The court said, ‘’This is the 21st century, and where have we reached in the name of religion? This is shocking for a country that is considered to be religion-neutral.’’ Earlier, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who came to India on a three-day visit, had also criticized India for its human rights record and rising hate speeches.
Earlier on Thursday, the Supreme Court had sought a response from the Center and States on a plea seeking immediate intervention to curb the growing menace of allegedly targeting and terrorizing the Muslim community in India. Petitioner Shaheen Abdullah had moved the apex court seeking a direction to the Center and the states to initiate an independent, credible and impartial investigation into incidents of hate crimes and hate speeches across the country.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal said, ‘’Something needs to be done to tackle the problem and action should be taken against those making hate speeches or indulging in hate crimes.” In the petition, Abdullah has also sought the implementation of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and other stringent provisions to curb hate crimes and hate speech. He has said that the Muslim community is being targeted and terrorized by the involvement of the members of the ruling political party in giving hate speeches.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, who was on a three-day visit to India on Wednesday, also gave advice saying, “As an elected member of the Human Rights Council, India has a responsibility to shape global human rights and to protect and promote the rights of all individuals, including members of minority communities.” However, he also praised India’s achievements after 75 years of independence. Citing Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, Guterres said there was a need to protect their values by explicitly condemning hate speech.
