On May 8, 2025, the Supreme Court of India emphasized that any attempts to spread communal hatred or indulge in hate speech must be dealt with sternly. The bench, comprising Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, made these observations while addressing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Advocate Vishal Tiwari. The PIL sought action against political leaders making provocative statements in the context of the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025.

The Court declared that hate speech cannot be tolerated, as it leads to the loss of dignity and self-worth of targeted group members, contributes to societal disharmony, and undermines the values of tolerance and open-mindedness essential for a multicultural society committed to equality. It further stated that any attempt to cause alienation or humiliation of a targeted group is a criminal offense and must be addressed accordingly.

In the same proceedings, the Court addressed comments made by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who had criticized the judiciary and Chief Justice Khanna following the Court’s intervention in petitions challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Dubey had alleged that the Supreme Court was responsible for inciting religious wars in the country. The Court described Dubey’s remarks as “highly irresponsible” and indicative of a desire to attract attention by casting aspersions on the judiciary. However, the bench refrained from initiating contempt proceedings, asserting that the judiciary’s credibility cannot be undermined by such statements.

This development underscores the Supreme Court’s firm stance against hate speech and its commitment to upholding the integrity of the judiciary amidst political discourse.

Sources