LawLoveLegal

The Supreme Court of India has issued a significant caution regarding the regulation of digital platforms like YouTube, stressing that excessively rigid controls could have a chilling effect on freedom of speech. While acknowledging the urgent need to prevent misuse of online spaces and protect individual rights, the Court reiterated that any regulatory mechanism must be balanced, flexible, and constitutionally sound. Supreme Court’s Emphasis on a Balanced Digital Regulatory Framework During the hearing on Monday, a Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi highlighted that the rising misuse of YouTube and similar platforms demands stringent oversight. However, the judges warned that harsh and inflexible rules could unintentionally impose a gag on free expression and lead to devastating consequences for digital creators and public discourse. The Bench stated that increasing incidents of online content violating privacy, dignity, and individual r...

Nepal's Controversial Social Media Bill: A Step Towards Regulation or Censorship? The Nepalese government has introduced the "Social Media Bill" , aiming to regulate digital platforms , enforce user accountability , and curb misinformation . However, critics argue that the bill threatens freedom of speech and privacy , raising concerns about government overreach . Despite strong opposition from political leaders, social media users, and free speech advocates , Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung , tabled the bill in the National Assembly on Sunday, February 2025 . The bill proposes strict licensing rules, content restrictions, and hefty penalties for violating regulations. What Does the Social Media Bill Propose? 🔹 Mandatory Licensing for Social Media Platforms Companies operating social media platforms in Nepal must obtain a two-year license . The license must be renewed periodically , giving the government control over...