SHORT ANSWER:
The legal framework in India balances freedom of expression and harmful content through various laws, including the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Indian Penal Code.
DETAILS:
- The Information Technology Act, 2000, regulates online content and provides provisions for the removal of harmful content.
- The Indian Penal Code (IPC) includes sections like 499 and 500, which address defamation, including against government officials.
- Section 66A of the IT Act (though struck down by the Supreme Court in 2015) previously dealt with sending offensive messages through communication service.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- Defamation can lead to imprisonment for up to two years and/or a fine under IPC sections 499 and 500.
- The government can issue takedown notices for harmful content under the IT Act.
SOURCE:
- Information Technology Act, 2000; Indian Penal Code, 1860.
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