SC Rebukes Cartoonist Over Posts on PM Modi and RSS, Grants Interim Relief

The Supreme Court on Tuesday expressed strong disapproval of cartoonist Hemant Malviya for sharing allegedly offensive content on social media related to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Despite the criticism, the court granted him temporary protection from arrest.

Court Issues Stern Warning

A two-judge bench, consisting of Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Aravind Kumar, warned Malviya that if he continued to post objectionable material, the Madhya Pradesh government could take strict legal action. Justice Dhulia, speaking in Hindi, remarked, “Hadd hai! Log kisi ko bhi, kuch bhi keh dete hain”—a comment pointing to the increasing misuse of free speech online.

The court also stated it may consider setting new guidelines for handling abusive online content in its next hearing, scheduled after August 15.

Freedom of Speech vs. Responsible Expression

The case against Malviya involves derogatory cartoons targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and RSS members. Although the posts originated in 2021, they recently resurfaced and began circulating again on social media, triggering renewed attention.

Malviya approached the Supreme Court after the Madhya Pradesh High Court rejected his request for anticipatory bail earlier this month.

Lawyers Defend Artist’s Intent

Advocate Vrinda Grover, appearing for Malviya, argued that criticising political figures through art or cartoons should not be seen as a crime. She clarified that Malviya’s original cartoon was from 2020 and that the post under investigation had been altered by someone else who added religious text to it. Still, Malviya was facing legal consequences.

Grover also stated that her client was willing to remove the content in question.

The court stresses the need for caution online

Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj said that while freedom of expression is important, it should not be used to promote content that could be seen as criminal. The bench echoed this view, emphasising the growing problem of people using harsh or irresponsible language online just to gain attention.