• Janees Rafiq

The research paper meticulously delves into the intricate relationship between freedom of speech and sedition laws, systematically tracing their evolution in India and various countries. The primary aim is to critically examine the interplay between national security imperatives and the fundamental right to freedom of speech. Through a comparative analysis, the paper scrutinizes sedition laws in India, the United States, England, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, revealing diverse trajectories shaped by underlying philosophies responding to socio-political changes. A key focus is on examining judicial interpretations of sedition laws and the crucial role played by judiciary in upholding the constitutionality of sedition laws, navigated the delicate balance between state security and individual freedoms. The research aims to illuminate evolving standards and considerations influencing the application and understanding of sedition laws. The paper addresses challenges arising from the vague definition of sedition in Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code, emphasizing how this ambiguity has been exploited over the period of time. It also confronts the lack of clear guidelines for the application of sedition laws, exploring their repercussions on individuals' freedom of speech and expression. Additionally, the study investigates the practical implications of the misuse of sedition laws, where the process itself becomes a form of punishment, causing harassment until legal judgments are rendered. The research significantly contributes to the scholarly discourse on the delicate balance between national security imperatives and the preservation of fundamental rights. By exploring the evolution of sedition laws, their judicial interpretations, and practical challenges, the study enriches our understanding of the complex interplay between freedom of speech and national security within contemporary legal frameworks.

Sedition, Freedoms, Exploited, Harassment, Security, Complex Interplay

"THE DILEMMA OF FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND SEDITION: AN ANALYSIS OF INTERPLAY BETWEEN NATIONAL SECURITY AND FREE SPEECH", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 8, page no.l153-l209, August-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRTHE2220.pdf

"THE DILEMMA OF FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND SEDITION: AN ANALYSIS OF INTERPLAY BETWEEN NATIONAL SECURITY AND FREE SPEECH", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 8, page no. ppl153-l209, August-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRTHE2220.pdf