Writings perceived as criticism of the government cannot be the reason for filing criminal cases against journalists, said the Supreme Court, underlining the right to freedom of speech and expression.
"In democratic nations, the freedom to express one's views is respected and the rights of journalists are protected under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution," said the Supreme Court.
The bench, comprising Justices Hrishikesh Roy and SVN Bhatti, was hearing a petition filed by journalist Abhishek Upadhyay, who sought quashing of an FIR lodged against him in Uttar Pradesh for allegedly publishing a news report on the "caste dynamics of the general administration" in the state.
"Merely because writings of a journalist are perceived as criticism of the government, criminal cases should not be slapped against the writer," the court said.
Issuing a notice to the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government, seeking its response in the matter, the top court said, "In the meantime, coercive steps should not be taken against the petitioner in connection with the subject article."
"Medical Seats Should Not Go To Waste When Country Faces Shortage Of Doctors": Supreme Court "Is There A Proposal To Cut More Trees In Aarey?": Top Court Asks Maharashtra Health Of Farmer Leader Fasting For 25 Days Punjab's Responsibility: Top Court Parents On Mumbai Ferry Wanted To Toss Children In Sea. Rescuers Stopped Them Robin Uthappa Faces Arrest Warrant For Alleged Provident Fund Fraud Delhi Lt Governor Allows Probe Agency To Prosecute Arvind Kejriwal: Sources CAT 2024 Toppers: 14 Candidates Get Perfect Score, Check List Here On Camera, Car Flips 8 Times, But No One Hurt. They Then Ask For 'Tea' Watch: UK Man Leaves Haircut To Help Policeman Under Attack, Internet Reacts Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world.