SHORT ANSWER:
Indian higher courts, including the Delhi High Court, have addressed cases of communal riots due to social media posts by emphasizing the need for responsible use of social media and upholding freedom of speech with certain restrictions.
DETAILS:
- Courts have ruled that social media platforms must monitor and remove inflammatory content to prevent communal tensions.
- They have stressed the importance of balancing free speech with public order and communal harmony.
- Legal precedents include cases where individuals were held accountable for spreading hate speech online.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- Individuals may face charges under IPC sections such as 153A (promoting enmity) and 295A (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings).
- Social media companies may be required to comply with government regulations to prevent misuse.
SOURCE:
- Indian Penal Code (IPC), Delhi High Court rulings.
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