PRIYA PRAKASH VARRIER vs THE STATE OF TELANGANA

The Supreme Court examined the applicability of Section 295A IPC concerning a song that allegedly offends religious sentiments. The Court held that the provision requires deliberate and malicious intent to outrage religious feelings, and the mere existence of a song does not automatically attract this section. The Court emphasized that freedom of speech is subject to reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2) of the Constitution, particularly in matters affecting public order. The petitioners were not held liable for the song's content prior to its release.