Modi govt to re-examine & reconsider Sedition Law

The Modi government has told the Supreme Court not to invest its time in examining the validity of Section 124A as it has decided to re-examine and reconsider the controversial Sedition Law.

In an affidavit filed before the apex court, the government said that in tune with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to shed colonial baggage at a time when the nation is marking its 75th year of independence, the Centre has decided to reconsider various colonial laws.

The affidavit noted that the government is fully aware of various views being expressed on the subject of sedition and has also considered the concerns of civil liberties and human rights, while remaining committed to maintain and protect the sovereignty and integrity of India.

The affidavit was filed in response to a batch petitions challenging the constitutionality of the Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code which criminalises the offence of sedition.

Also watch: Modi govt defends sedition law in Supreme Court amid challenge by petitions: reports

In July last year, the Supreme Court had questioned the Centre on whether the sedition law was needed 75 years after independence.

The Apex Court is currently considering whether the matter should be referred to a Constitution Bench.