The caricature replaced the saffron color of the national flag with black
The Kerala High Court dismissed the case against the young artist, citing freedom of expression
Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) – The Kerala High Court has dismissed a case against a cartoonist accused of desecrating the Indian national flag, upholding freedom of expression. The case involved a caricature published by Malayalam Manorama magazine on the 70th Independence Day, which featured Gandhi and the Indian national flag, where the saffron section depicted with a black line. This led to a complaint from the General Secretary of the BJP State Committee.
During the hearing, Justice P.V. Kunhikrishnan stated that,
A cartoonist’s concise artwork can make a striking visual statement, drawing in and inspiring the viewer.
Cartoonists, as integral members of the mass media, are protected by Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India, which grants them the freedom to express their opinions, ideas, and creativity through cartoons.
Nonetheless, this freedom is subject to limitations outlined in Article 19(2) of the Constitution to ensure that the unity and integrity of the nation are preserved. Cartoonists have the power to express substantial messages within a small cartoon.
| Editorial Perspective –
There appears to be a pattern where those opposing India and Hinduism exploit freedom of expression. The central government needs to take a closer look at this ! |