Supreme Court Demands Apology from Influencers for Offensive Content

The Supreme Court has firmly stated that commercial and prohibited speeches do not fall under fundamental rights, directing five social media influencers, including 'India's Got Latent' host Samay Raina, to issue apologies for disparaging individuals with disabilities and rare genetic disorders.

Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, who presided over the matter, underscored the gravity of the offense, noting that the influencers must show a higher degree of remorse than the extent of their insensitivity. The court is contemplating imposing penalties, which could be allocated to benefit individuals suffering from conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

As the government drafts guidelines for social media regulations, the court stressed the importance of accountability and warned that humor should not be at the expense of different communities. They have tasked the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to consider all stakeholders' perspectives in its efforts, and highlighted the persistent risk of ridicule spreading to other vulnerable groups in society.

(With inputs from agencies.)