Section 124A of IPC

Section 124A of IPC has been used to intimidate, silence and punish journalists. Unless the provision is deleted from IPC, it will continue to 'haunt and hinder' the full realisation of the right to free speech and the freedom of press, said the plea in Supreme Court

The plea filed through Advocate Prashant Bhushan stated, “mere advocacy and discussion which is protected under Article 19(1)(a) has been made punishable under Section 124 - A of Indian Penal Code.”

Supreme Court deferred hearing on Section 124A of IPC, saying it was ultra vires Article 19 (1) (a) of the Constitution, read with Articles 14 and 21