The Supreme Court on Monday addressed a case involving several comedians, including Samay Raina, over jokes that were deemed insensitive towards persons with disabilities. While the court underscored the need to respect the sentiments of differently-abled communities, it also recognized the role of comedy and freedom of expression in society.
The bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi directed the comedians to extend their apologies to social media platforms, complementing the unconditional apologies already tendered in court. The SMA Cure Foundation, which filed the plea, highlighted the emotional impact of such jokes on persons with disabilities, prompting the court to emphasise the importance of responsible public communication.
Justice Bagchi noted that while humour is an essential part of life, commercialising speech in a way that may offend vulnerable groups crosses a line. The court encouraged the comedians to use their influence positively, turning the situation into an opportunity to raise awareness about disability issues.
Counsel for the comedians expressed willingness to undertake initiatives to promote sensitivity and inclusivity, demonstrating responsiveness to the court’s guidance. Justice Kant also remarked on the broader implications, cautioning that unchecked humour could affect other sections of society, such as women, senior citizens, and children, and urged all stakeholders to strike a balance between creative expression and social responsibility.