Supreme Court Summons Comedians Over Insensitive Jokes on Persons with Disabilities

The Supreme Court heard a plea against five comedians, including Samay Raina, for making insensitive jokes targeting persons with disabilities (PwDs). 

The bench ordered the comedians, except Sonali Thakkar, who may appear online, to appear in person and file their replies within two weeks, warning that no further extensions would be granted. 

The Court stressed the serious nature of the issue, emphasising the right to dignity under Article 21, which cannot be overridden by free speech rights under Article 19. 

The Court invited all stakeholders for an open debate to formulate constitutional guidelines balancing freedom of expression and protection of dignity. Absence from proceedings will be viewed seriously.