UNDERSTANDING SEDITION LAW IN INDIA

Abstract

India has adopted various laws from the British rule, one such law is Sedition law. Section 124 (A) of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 talks about Sedition and also states the punishment for this offence i.e. imprisonment for 3 years which may extent to life imprisonment along with which fine may be added. In simple words Sedition may be defined as an act or acts done, which brings the people against the elected Government. Sedition law was first introduced by British Government in the year 1870. This paper will discuss about how this law was used to stop the leaders of independence movement and will also describe the historical background of Sedition law. Sedition includes all such practices which, may be by word, deed, or writing, disturb the peace of the State, Government or law and order of the country. This paper will discuss about the Constitutional Validity of Sedition law and about the judicial interpretation of this Section. Sedition law is basically to protect the sovereignty and integrity of the country. However, this law is considered as one of the most controversial law in India. Because it imposes a limitation on freedom of speech and expression of an individual. In this article you will find the difference between freedom of speech and expression as provided under Article 19 (1) of the Indian Constitution and Sedition law. Lastly, the paper will discuss about some important judgments which shaped and gave a proper interpretation to describe in the Sedition law in India.