Freedom of speech constitutionally protected: SC on J&K internet shutdown

Expressing oneself through the medium of Internet is an integral part of fundamental right to speech and expression under Article 19 of the Constitution and any restrictions imposed on it should be reasonable, the Supreme Court on Friday held.

The top court said that right of trade and commerce through Internet is also constitutionally protected subject to reasonable restrictions.

It said that complete blocking or prohibition cannot be accepted by the court and achievement of peace and tranquillity within the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir requires a multi-faceted approach without excessively burdening the right to freedom of speech.