FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND THE IMPACT OF FAKE NEWS ON DEMOCRATIC PROCESS IN INDIA
AUTHOR – VISHAL KUMAR, STUDENT AT AMITY UNIVERSITY LUCKNOW
BEST CITATION -VISHAL KUMAR, FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND THE IMPACT OF FAKE NEWS ON DEMOCRATIC PROCESS IN INDIA, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (6) OF 2025, PG. 807-814, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344
Abstract
Freedom of speech and expression is the cornerstone of any democratic society. In India, this fundamental right is enshrined in Article 19(1)(a)[1] of the Constitution and serves as a key element in the functioning of democratic governance. However, the unchecked spread of fake news, particularly through digital and social media platforms, poses significant threats to democratic values, including electoral integrity, public discourse, and social harmony. This paper explores the constitutional foundation of free speech in India, the rise and implications of fake news, judicial responses, and the necessary balance between freedom and regulation in a digital democracy.
[1] Freedom of speech and expression