How Free is Free Speech?
What does "free speech" really means?
Is it same for every one of us?
How it is important for the media?
Should 'free speech' be controlled or suppressed if one goes against the government or if one's remarks/thoughts can lead to potential agitation among masses?
Or the air should be free for everyone irrespective of the nature of their words?
What should be the punishment for people who violate the Freedom of Speech in your opinion?
Free speech as conceptualised in the constitution is one of the fundamental right. but these funamental rights are to be exercised limiting to certain restrictions. So the State can put reasonable restriction on the our freedom of speech on the grounds of sovreignity and integrity of Inida, security of the state, friendly relation with foreign states, public order, contempt of court, defamation etc.
So to answer your questions.
- it is not same for all the people. rights under article 19 are applicable to only citizens of india, and not foreign nationals.
- It is really important for media as the media is (or atleast should be) the watchdog on democracy.
- only in the matters mentioned above, other than that free speech should NEVER be suppressed.
- Air can't be free for everyone. everyone must be held responsible based on how they exercise their right to free speech.
Thats an answer