Overview

• Five influencers, including YouTuber Samay Raina, appeared before a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi on July 15 in response to a Cure SMA Foundation petition alleging mocking of persons with disabilities.
• The court directed all respondents to submit detailed replies within two weeks and warned that absence at the next hearing will be viewed seriously, granting only Sonali Thakkar permission for virtual appearance on health grounds.
• Justices described the comedians’ jokes about disability and rare diseases as “disturbing” and said they will scrutinize each individual’s conduct in detail before considering remedial or punitive measures.
• Attorney General R Venkataramani was asked to prepare enforceable guidelines that balance the right to freedom of speech under Article 19 with the right to dignity and life protected by Article 21.
• On the same day, Samay Raina appeared before the National Commission for Women and submitted a written apology for sexist remarks on his show, with the NCW to review his statement before deciding further action.