Expressing Support for Pakistan Isn’t a Crime, Allahabad High Court Rules
In a significant decision upholding freedom of expression, the Allahabad High Court has ruled that merely expressing support for Pakistan does not automatically qualify as a criminal offense.
High Court Cites Supreme Court Precedent
Referencing the Supreme Court’s judgment in the Imran Pratapgadhi case, the High Court emphasized the importance of a reasonable person’s perspective when evaluating social media posts. This reinforces the principle that expressing an opinion, even if unpopular or controversial, does not necessarily translate into criminal activity.
Protecting Online Speech, Ensuring Reasonable Scrutiny
The court’s decision offers crucial protection for online speech, reminding law enforcement agencies to exercise caution and apply reasonable scrutiny before registering cases based on social media content. This balanced approach helps protect individuals from undue legal action while maintaining public order.
