Humour Under Scrutiny: Satire, Law, And Public Discourse In India
- IJLLR Journal
- Oct 17
- 2 min read
Prof. Shakeel Ahmad, Dean & Professor, D/O Law, AMU
Abhishek Arya, Research Scholar, Dept. of Law, Aligarh Muslim University
ABSTRACT
This article examines shifts in humorous conversation in India in light of the counter measures to ensure freedom of speech and expression in comedy shows. Through stand-up comedy shows alongside digital media methods satire has become what is widely acknowledged as a socially and politically critical tool. Shaking rage from comedians, from legal structures generally speaking and the society, lead to significant questions of boundary implications of free speech and humour within democracy. This study investigates the amount of legal safeguards Indian law offers to satirical content by a qualitative analysis of legal constraints limiting its use. This comprehensive research posits specifically upon Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution concerning the Right to Freedom of Speech and dwells delimitation in analysis of Article 19(2) restrictions. This research looks to cover legal limitations established by the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), as these limitations are of importance in the regimes of freedom of the comedian in India. Legal precedents as well as critical opinions receive thorough analysis to assess the court's reading of these legal instruments where they touch on satirical/comedic material. Research examines the issues with Indian comedians in their time today by examining how economic and political concerns in many cases clash with their work.
The study aims to widen Indian free-wheeling speech research and address significant issues concerning dissident practice in a country bringing up to date of what is becoming increasing intolerant. It proposes an enhanced legal framework to comprehend the democratic value of satire, nevertheless, it resolves with real issues about public order and moral norms. The research examines how well India legally navigates the line between humour, expression of free speech and criticism rights in today’s fast-paced digital mood, and triggering reportedly offended reactions.
