From likes to legalities: Be a responsible social media user

If one is basking in the glow of social media fame, it is pertinent to remember that it’s not just about accumulating followers, likes and shares. It’s about using the platform responsibly,

In today’s digital age, the allure of social media’s limelight and fame can be intoxicating. The power to connect with a vast audience, share your thoughts and have your voice heard is undoubtedly enticing. However, with this power comes a significant responsibility—the responsibility to wield that influence ethically and respectfully. The adage “with great power comes great responsibility” holds true, particularly when it comes to the realm of social media.

While social media can be a platform for empowerment and positive change, it can also be a breeding ground for abusive behaviour, hate speech and cyberbullying. In a world where online interactions can quickly escalate into real-world consequences, it’s essential to recognize that the virtual space is not a lawless void. In fact, just as one can reap the rewards of online fame, they must also be prepared to face the legal repercussions that accompany abusive behavior on social media.

The concept of free speech, often invoked in defence of online expression, is not without its limits. Laws and regulations exist to protect individuals from harm, discrimination and defamation, whether in the physical world or in cyberspace. If you find yourself in the spotlight of social media fame, it’s vital to remember that your words and actions carry weight—not just with your followers, but also with the legal system.
Defamation, hate speech, cyberbullying, outraging modesty of women and privacy violations are among the offences that can have serious legal consequences:

1. Defamatory online statements can result in penalties under Section 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code. Those found liable may face imprisonment of up to two years or a fine, or both.
2. Hate speech, inciting violence, is addressed in IPC Sections 153A, 153B, 295A, 298, 505(1), and 505(2), leading to punishments for promoting disharmony or insults based on various grounds.
3. Cyberbullying, though not explicitly defined, may attract punishments under provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000 and IPC.
4. Outraging the modesty of a woman is a grave offence, punishable by imprisonment and a fine.
5. Sharing personal information without consent infringes on privacy rights, with Section 66E of the IT Act imposing penalties of imprisonment up to three years or a fine up to Rs. 3 Lakhs.\
   Navigating the fine line between exercising your right to expression and overstepping into harmful territory requires a deep understanding of the legal landscape. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse and the consequences of abusive behaviour can be swift and severe. As social media continues to evolve, so does the legal framework that governs it. Law enforcement agencies and courts are becoming increasingly adept at addressing online offences and holding individuals accountable.
   So, if one is basking in the glow of social media fame, it is pertinent to remember that it’s not just about accumulating followers, likes and shares. It’s about using the platform responsibly, fostering positive discourse and respecting the rights and dignity of others. With the potential for fame comes the obligation to educate yourself about the legal boundaries that guide your online presence. In this digital age, being a responsible and respectful social media user means not only enjoying the privileges but also bracing oneself for any legal storm that may arise from abusive social media posts.

Khushbu Jain is a practicing advocate in the Supreme Court and founding partner of the law firm, Ark Legal. She can be contacted on Twitter: @advocatekhushbu