Insta
Congress’ Promise To Scrap Sedition Law Called ‘Nonsense’, ‘Impractical’ By Former Attorney General Soli Sorabjee
Swarajya Staff
Apr 03, 2019, 02:20 PM | Updated 02:20 PM IST
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
Noted jurist and former Attorney General Of India, Soli Sorabjee termed poll promises made in the Congress manifesto to repeal existing criminal laws on sedition and defamation as "nonsense" and "impractical,” reports Times Of India (TOI).
In its manifesto for the 2019 general elections released yesterday (2 April), Congress stated that it would make ‘defamation' a civil offence, omit Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code (that defines the offence of 'sedition') that has been misused and, in any event, has become redundant because of subsequent laws.’
In response to a question on his view about Congress’ promise to repeal these laws, Sorabjee said that it was "nonsense" and such claim was "impractical".
It should be noted Congress president Rahul Gandhi is facing trial in a criminal defamation case presently being heard in Bhiwandi (Maharashtra). He had alleged that Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) was responsible for the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.
Sorabjee is a Padma Vibhushan awardee and known for his defence of the freedom of expression and the protection of human rights. He has also held several offices in organisations of national and international repute.
Dangerous Promises
Finance Minister also criticised the Congress manifesto, stating that some of the ideas were "positively dangerous." When out of ignorance he makes unimplementable and dangerous promises, I am sure the country will not oblige him," he added.
Also Read: If The Congress Manifesto Does Seek To Repeal Sedition Law, It Would Be Bad Optics
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
Support Swarajya's 50 Ground Reports Project & Sponsor A Story
Every general election Swarajya does a 50 ground reports project.
Aimed only at serious readers and those who appreciate the nuances of political undercurrents, the project provides a sense of India's electoral landscape. As you know, these reports are produced after considerable investment of travel, time and effort on the ground.
This time too we've kicked off the project in style and have covered over 30 constituencies already. If you're someone who appreciates such work and have enjoyed our coverage please consider sponsoring a ground report for just Rs 2999 to Rs 19,999 - it goes a long way in helping us produce more quality reportage.
You can also back this project by becoming a subscriber for as little as Rs 999 - so do click on this links and choose a plan that suits you and back us.
Click below to contribute.