The Supreme Court on Wednesday came down heavily on mainstream TV news channels for holding debates that often give space for hate speech. The top court also questioned why the government remains a mute spectator to such incidents.
The role of anchor in TV debate is “very important” and “critical”, a bench of Justices K.M. Joseph and Hrishikesh Roy said, adding that it's their duty to ensure the guests invited to the debate show do not indulge in hate speech.
"Role of the anchor is very important. These speeches are on mainstream media or social media that is unregulated. Mainstream TV channels still hold sway. The role of the anchor is critical. The moment you see somebody going into hate speech, it is the duty of anchor to immediately see that he doesn't allow that person," said Justice Joseph.
While freedom of speech is important, hate speech cannot be allowed on television, he said. “We cannot give hate any air”.
Justice Roy remarked that unless the consequences of hate speech hit the violators, such instances might continue.
The top court was hearing a batch of petitions seeking directions for steps against hate speech incidents.
The bench asked why the government remains a mute spectator on the issue. "What's the problem? Why government of India not taking a stand? Why is the government remaining a mute spectator?,” the court asked.
Justice Joseph further said the government should not take an adversarial stand on this but assist the court.
