[rushabh]

Yes there is increasing threat to freedom of speech, but India is not new to this. The left leaning Congress had even worse norms when they imposed martial law (Emergency).

India has a robust sphere of public debate and draconian laws and acts of discrimination by the government are regularly criticised. In more cases than not the government embarrasses itself by its clumsy use of power to restrict opposition, like in the case of the BBC documentary which did not uncover anything new.

Constant vigilance is required. I am not a BJP supporter, but I don't think the intent of the BJP is to suppress debate. They seek legitimacy. BJP is clearly toning down its more radical elements and is getting more mature judging by the way it allowed the Bharat Jodo Yatra (Join India Campaign) and understands that a robust opposition is in national interest.

I am more hopeful than this article.

[adharmad]

What does "allowed the Bharat Jodo Yatra" mean? Free speech and assembly is constitutionally protected - there is nothing for the government to allow or disallow.

[0x5FC3]

> judging by the way it allowed the Bharat Jodo Yatra

I mean, sure, yeah, we're not North Korea yet. And is that the bar we are setting for the "World's largest democracy?"

[selfhoster69]

> it allowed the Bharat Jodo Yatra (Join India Campaign) and understands that a robust opposition is in national interest.

Last time I checked India was still a democracy.

[yiamvino]

. BJP is clearly toning down its more radical elements how exactly this is measured? do you have any stats to support your claim not the observation going whats printed on the media / social media.

[supriyo-biswas]

It is useful to realize that either side is moved by the allure of power, and it's a fool's errand to justify the current situation with whataboutism - either instance was wrong.

[rushabh]

I am not justifying the situation. I don't buy the overly negative prognosis.

[xxpor]

The Emergency was 50 years ago. Things change over time.