Is Free Speech under curb? Know about the controversial Section-118 A Kerala Police Act

The amendment to the Kerala Police Act will in no way be used against free speech or impartial journalism and any apprehensions to the contrary are unfounded, according to chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, still people across political and social spectrum are opposing it. Here is all you need to know about the act.

Under key provisions of the amendment to the Kerala Police Act 2011

* Anyone creating or sending offensive message or that which is intended to offend or threaten another person, through any means of communication, is liable to face imprisonment of five years or fine of Rs 10,000 or both.

* Police can slap criminal charges on citizens by interpreting any kind of communication through any medium as defamatory

* It finds even “injury to the mind” a reason for slapping criminal charges not just on the petition of the victim, but also anyone “in whom they have interest” or as a suo motu act by a police official.

Path taken by Ordinance

* The state cabinet on October 21 decided to recommend to the governor to promulgate the ordinance, to which governor Arif Mohammed Khan gave his consent on Saturday

Why Is It Controversial?

* The amendment has stretched the law to such an extent that every communication or publication has been left to the subjective interpretation of the police to slap criminal charges against anyone.

* The move comes on the heels of failed efforts by the government to control the narrative in the media, especially social media, in the wake of discussions of ongoing investigations by central agencies in the state.

Source Link