Freedom Of Speech

The 21st century is going on, people want to be more free and safeguarded. Each one of us have a particular view point regarding any situation which need not be same for everyone. Various laws and regulations are already existing over the world to protect our rights and various forms of freedom. One such form is of speech. This idea dates back to ancient Greek. The word "parrhesia" means to speak candidly. Various countries adopted this later on. This right covers all form of communication oral, written , visual etc. The Indian Constitution provides us this fundamental right under Article 19. We may speak and present our point of view fearlessly. A civil democracy can't be build up without freedom of speech. This human right includes freedom to hold opinions and thoughts without any interference, to impart information and ideas through every form of media . This includes not only politics, but all domains of society. Starting straight away from home, the opinions of women or children in decision making till openly speaking to a mob regarding the policies of ruling party. New ideas are formed during debates and discussions thus, this is the key to development.

It gives us the power to question, and give suggestions. No citizen can be deprived from this. Examples of this right are present everywhere. The stream you want to pursue , the place you want to visit , the mindset you have regarding a comment, the people you want to support publicly everything is FOS.

With rights come responsibilities. The article 19(2) gives the state the power to regulate the misuse of this right. There are various aspects where this is being exploited. Trolling is one such example. And it's quite prominently these days.

But are people really free to hold opinions? Especially if the are against the government. I think no. There is still a long way to go , to improvise , to be more Democratic rather than diplomatic .

The proper implementation of this right, without any interference or exploitation would lead to progress of entire society and mankind. After all it's rightly said by Voltaire,

"We may not have to agree with what you have to say, but, we will defend till death, your right to say it."