Supreme Court has passed a statement today, on 30th Of April, saying no state can register any FIR or cases against people asking for help on social media. The states cannot take any coercive action against people putting out their grievances or seeking medical help on social media during the coronavirus pandemic.
The bench included Justice LN Rao and Justice SR Bhat and was led by Justice DY Chandrachud. Supreme Court said, “I flag this issue at the outset…We want to make it very clear that if citizens communicate their grievance on social media and the internet then it can’t be said it's wrong information. We don’t want any clampdown on the information.”
Concerning the current situation, the bench stated that it will treat any action against such information or any plead for help as a contempt of court. The decision comes after the UP government had reportedly ordered strict action against the people who are creating panic by making a false appeal for help on social media amid covid surge.
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But overruling this decision of the state government, the SC said, “Let a strong message got to all states and their DGPs …Clampdown on information is contrary to basic precepts.”
Last week the top court also ordered the Central government to provide a plan to deal with the pandemic and strategies to ensure the supply of oxygen, vaccines, essentials drugs, and other related equipment. The court also asked the central government to give a plan to tackle lockdown if it is considering any.
Amid the covid19 crisis, where there is a scarcity of oxygen, beds, and medical facilities people are turning to social media to seek help. Many celebrities and social media influencers have come forward to help and are providing information regarding sources to get help.