A survey by The Future of Free Speech ranks India 25th for free speech support, revealing a paradox where public backing contrasts with legal protections. Many democratic nations, including India, show declining support for controversial speech, suggesting challenges in truly upholding free expression.
India has been ranked 25th out of 33 countries in a new global survey by The Future of Free Speech, an independent U.S.-based think tank. The report titled ‘Who in the World Supports Free Speech?’ indicates a strong abstract support for free speech, but a weakening commitment to protect controversial speech globally.
The survey reveals that while many countries maintain a strong theoretical backing for free speech, actual support for controversial discourse is diminishing. India’s ranking reflects a concerning gap where public support does not align with legal protections, illustrating the complexities surrounding free expression in the country and hinting at broader trends of democratic backsliding.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
