The Rajasthan High Court held that false or misleading social media posts which harm a person’s reputation or invade privacy violate the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Key Observations
The Court said misleading, malicious, or false content on platforms like Facebook that damages reputation or privacy is unconstitutional.
Such posts can seriously affect the dignity and privacy of individuals, particularly minors.
The Court emphasized that social media cannot be used to spread defamatory or misleading narratives about individuals.
Case Background
A minor approached the court alleging that a Facebook post contained misleading information about him, which affected his reputation and privacy.
The petition sought removal of the post and protection of the minor’s identity and dignity.
Court’s Direction
Justice Anoop Kumar Dhand directed that the misleading Facebook post be removed, observing that such content amounts to a privacy violation and infringement of the minor’s fundamental rights under Article 21.
Legal Principle:
Posting false or misleading information on social media that harms reputation or privacy can violate the right to life and dignity under Article 21.
