A recent global survey by the Future of Free Speech, a U.S.-based think tank, ranked India 24th out of 33 countries in support for free speech. The report titled ‘Who in the World Supports Free Speech?’ highlights the declining global commitment to protecting controversial speech.
Key Findings of the Report
- Global Trends:
- Scandinavian countries Norway (87.9) and Denmark (87.0) topped the rankings.
- Democracies like the U.S., Israel, and Japan witnessed major declines in free speech support since 2021.
- Indonesia (56.8), Malaysia (55.4), and Pakistan (57.0) showed improvements but remained in the lower ranks.
- India’s Performance:
- India ranked 24th with a score of 6, between South Africa (66.9) and Lebanon (61.8).
- 37% of Indian respondents supported restrictions on criticizing government policies—the highest among all surveyed nations.
- Public Perception vs. Reality:
- A majority of Indians value free speech but actual protection remains weak.
- India, along with Hungary and Venezuela, showed a disconnect between public support and real-world enforcement.
- Authoritarian Trends in Free Speech:
- Hungary (85.5) and Venezuela (81.8) scored high, despite government-imposed restrictions.
- The report suggests that public attitudes don’t always align with government policies on free speech.
India-Specific Insights
- Public Sentiment on Free Speech:
- While Indians value free expression, many believe the government should restrict criticism of policies.
- Comparisons with Other Countries:
- Only 5% in the U.K. and 3% in Denmark support government restrictions on criticism.
- Perceived vs. Actual Free Speech Protection:
- Many Indians believe free speech has improved, but global observers indicate democratic backsliding.
- India is categorized as a nation where freedom of speech is eroding despite public support for it.
- Constitutional Provisions on Free Speech in India:
- Article 19(1)(a): Guarantees freedom of speech and expression.
- Reasonable Restrictions under Article 19(2): Speech can be restricted in the interest of sovereignty, security, public order, decency, or morality.
- Judicial Interpretation & Landmark Cases:
- Romesh Thapar vs. State of Madras (1950): Free speech is essential for democracy.
- Shreya Singhal vs. Union of India (2015): Struck down Section 66A of the IT Act, strengthening online free speech.
- Global Indices & Reports on Free Speech:
- World Press Freedom Index (2023): India ranked 161 out of 180.
- Democracy Index (2023): India was classified as a “flawed democracy”.
- Challenges to Free Speech in India:
- Increasing Internet Shutdowns: India had the highest number of internet shutdowns globally in recent years.
- Defamation & Sedition Laws: Concerns over misuse of Sedition Law (Section 124A of IPC) to curb dissent.
- Media Restrictions & Censorship: Crackdowns on digital platforms and journalism.
The Future of Free Speech report highlights India’s contradictory position—strong public support for free speech but growing restrictions in practice. Balancing national security concerns with the democratic right to free expression remains a key challenge for India’s governance. Strengthening legal frameworks and institutional protections is crucial to safeguard freedom of speech in India.
