Five social media influencers, including popular comedian and host Samay Raina, appeared before the Supreme Court on Tuesday after being accused of making jokes that mocked persons with disabilities (PwDs). The other influencers named in the case are Vipul Goyal, Balraj Paramjeet Singh Ghai, Sonali Thakkar (also known as Sonali Aditya Desai), and Nishant Jagdish Tanwar.
A petition had been filed against them, claiming they made insensitive comments about people suffering from Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and other disabilities during a show. Taking the matter seriously, the Supreme Court directed all five to file their responses to the case within two weeks and warned that no further extensions would be given. They have also been asked to appear in person at the next hearing. However, due to a health condition, the court allowed Sonali Thakkar to join virtually.
The bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi also spoke about the need for better social media guidelines. The court asked Attorney General R. Venkataramani to prepare a set of rules that balance the right to free speech with the need to protect the dignity and rights of others.
The court added that while everyone has freedom of expression, it should not hurt or disrespect others, especially vulnerable communities.
