India's Supreme Court signals move to decriminalize defamation, citing free speech concerns in case involving The Wire and former JNU professor.

The Supreme Court of India has signaled support for decriminalizing defamation during hearings in a case involving news outlet The Wire and former JNU professor Amita Singh. Justices MM Sundresh and Satish Chandra Sharma questioned the use of criminal defamation laws, particularly in private disputes, and expressed concern over prolonged legal battles that may suppress free speech. The court issued notice on a petition by the Foundation for Independent Journalism, which runs The Wire, challenging a summons over a 2016 report alleging Singh submitted a dossier on a sex racket at JNU. The court has stayed the trial, emphasizing the need to balance reputation rights with free expression, especially in media cases. The ruling reflects growing scrutiny of colonial-era laws and could influence future legal reforms in India.