SC fines Bengal govt for ‘blocking’ film

Expressing concern over growing intolerance to dissent and curbing of artistic freedom, the SC said the state is constitutionally bound to protect people's freedom and slapped a fine of Rs 20 Lakh on the West Bengal government for blocking release of satirical film 'Bhobishyoter Bhoot'. A bench of Justices DY Chandrachud and Hemant Gupta said artistes are entitled to the fullest liberty and freedom to critique and criticise, and government agencies cannot put restrictions on artistic freedom to express their views. Justice Chandrachud who wrote the judgment, said, “The Constitution does not permit those in authority to crush the freedom of others to believe, think and express.”