BBC documentary: PIL challenges ban by Centre

One-liner:  A PIL has been filed in the SC against the Centre's decision to ban a BBC documentary on the 2002 Gujarat riots in the country, alleging it was malafide, arbitrary and unconstitutional.

Seeks action: The PIL filed by advocate ML Sharma also urged the apex court to call and examine the BBC documentary - both part I and II - and sought action against persons responsible directly and indirectly for the 2002 Gujarat riots.

Constitutional question: Sharma said he has raised a constitutional question and the top court has to decide whether citizens have the right under Article 19 (1) (2) to see news, facts and reports on the 2002 Gujarat riots.

Illegal and arbitrary: He has sought direction to quash the order dated Jan 21, 2023, of the Ministry of the Information and Broadcasting, terming it as illegal, malafide, arbitrary and unconstitutional.

Can Centre curtail freedom: His plea said whether the central govt can curtail freedom of the press which is a fundamental right as guaranteed under Article 19 (1) (2) of the Constitution.

On Emergency provisions: "Whether without having an Emergency declared under Article 352 of the Constitution of India by the President, Emergency provisions can be invoked by the central govt?" the PIL said.

Claim: It claimed the BBC documentary has recorded facts which are also evidence and can be used to further the cause of justice for the victims.

Directions to block videos: On Jan 21, the Centre issued directions for blocking multiple YouTube videos and Twitter posts sharing links to the controversial BBC documentary - India: The Modi Question.