Should Law Monitor Artistic Expression?
From the perspective of India’s limitations on artistic expression, this assertion seems accurate. In India, the freedom of artistic expression has remained an issue. The role of legislation in controlling artistic expression is a hotly debated subject due to issues with the movie release, art exhibition closures, and censorship.
Many controversies have already surrounded films like Padmavaat, Madras Café, Ram Leela, An Insignificant Man, and others. The movies had to be defended by the creators to the audience. Even the Indian courts have struggled to make a clear decision about the kind of freedom that artists should enjoy.
While some advocate using the law to control artists’ freedom of expression, others argue that a film must be powerful enough to meet the demands of the audience. A situation like this makes one wonder whether laws are necessary to regulate artistic freedom in India.
Why should Artistic expression be under the law?
The rallies by community groups in dealing with cultural films are one of the main reasons why the law is essential. It is undoubtedly important to have strict legislation in these situations to protect the interests of the actors and filmmakers.
In the best interests of the kids, an artistic expression must be censored. When adolescents are exposed to art that explicitly uses vulgar language, violence, or sex, they suffer greatly.
Strict restrictions should be created to limit and stop the circulation of any artwork that is offensive to women. Also, to keep citizens secure from aggression and abusive behaviour, laws are necessary. Censorship of art is acceptable if it violates safety regulations and is in some way offensive to the public.
Why should Artistic expression be free?
The quality of the art presented by the artist will be reduced by judicial action since they will always be in danger of being censored.
As attention turns to the verdict rendered by the court, the message that was intended to be transmitted to the public loses its impact.
The spirit of democracy is killed when artists are censored and restricted. Expression freedom is a crucial component of democracy. If the law prohibits that, democracy is rendered useless.
Curtailing the arts not only results in loss of income but also puts other artists in danger.
The fundamental purpose of having laws in a country is disregarded when they create an unsafe atmosphere.