With reference to the Freedom of Speech and Expression under Article 19(1)(a) and the restriction of 'Contempt of Court' under Article 19(2), which of the following statements is legally accurate according to the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971?
Fundamental Rights — question ID 1103
Options
A.
B.
Explanation
By the Contempt of Courts (Amendment) Act, 2006, Section 13 was amended to introduce 'truth' as a valid defense in contempt proceedings, provided it is in the public interest and bona fide. Innocent publications, fair comment on the merits of a decided case, and accurate reports do not amount to contempt. The Supreme Court derives its core contempt power directly from Article 129 of the Constitution, making it independent of parliamentary statutes.