The Supreme Court has requested the Centre to repeal thesedition laws. This is perceivably a good sign. The laws were being unjustlyused against citizens to further the agenda of the prevailing government of theday. These draconian British-era laws were passed to tackle dissent fromMahatma Gandhi and Bal Gangadhar Tilak for largely talking and making speechesagainst their colonial masters. Many people have been booked and arelanguishing in jails for speaking adversely against individuals or thegovernment. Freedom of speech is of the essence of a healthy democracy to bringabout judicious and worthy changes for the betterment of society and the state.A relook is required by the apex court to analyse and trim the fangs of theselaws if not to do away with them. Late Fr Stan Swamy was one victim who sufferedand was at the receiving end. Scores of people have been locked up unjustly andneed to be released soon before they fade away in oblivion.
