APTI PLUS Academy For Civil Services

Supreme Court on Social Media Regulation & Free Speech What happened? SC asked Union Govt. to frame guidelines (with NDABA consultation) for regulating social media & influencers. Trigger: Complaint by SMA advocacy group against comedians (Samay Raina, Vipul Goyal, Balraj Singh Ghai, Sonali Thakkar, Nishant Tanwar) for derogatory jokes on persons with disabilities. Court: Free speech cannot be abused for purely commercial purposes; ordered comedians to issue public apologies. Constitutional context (Art. 19) Free speech under Art. 19(1)(a) is subject only to 8 grounds in Art. 19(2): Sovereignty & integrity, Security of State, Friendly relations, Public order, Decency/morality, Contempt of Court, Defamation, Incitement to offences. SC has repeatedly held: These grounds are exhaustive and cannot be expanded. Shreya Singhal (2015): Struck down Sec. 66A IT Act; vague grounds (“annoyance/hatred”) unconstitutional. Kaushal Kishore (2023): No expansion of 19(2), even for dignity/offence. Imran Pratapgadhi case (2024): Offending/“disturbing” speech still protected. Commercial speech jurisprudence Hamdard Dawakhana (1959): Commercial ads = not protected free speech. Tata Press (1995): Commercial speech protected if in public interest (info flow in democracy). A. Suresh (1997): Business-linked speech must balance societal interest. SC now distinguishing between: Public-interest commercial speech (info to consumers) protected. Pure profit-driven speech (mocking vulnerable groups, false claims) not fully protected. Digital media already regulated IT Act 2000 + IT (Intermediary Guidelines & Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 govern platforms, influencers, and harmful content. Influencers are not beyond ordinary criminal law. Experts caution: New regulations must stay within Art. 19(2) and avoid vague grounds like “offence” or “dignity”. Implications Positive: Push for accountability of influencers, safeguards for dignity of vulnerable groups. Concerns: Risk of over-regulation → chilling effect on satire, art, political speech. Jurisprudential issue: SC’s “polyvocality” (inconsistent approaches) creates patchwork free speech law, dependent on individual judges.

The GST rate on Biodiesel (excluding OMC blending) has been revised.It has increased from 12% to 18% under the latest regulations.This move impacts the energy sector, pricing, and overall consumption trends.

EPFO exam on 30th November

In the journey of UPSC preparation, studying once is not enough — revision is the ultimate game-changer. IAS Abhijit Ray explains why consistent and smart revision is the foundation of success in UPSC CSE exams.

Big Relief Ahead! The 56th GST Council Meeting has announced a major change in the tax structure with a two-tier rate system — 5% (Merit Rate) and 18% (Standard Rate), along with 40% for select luxury/sin items. These revised GST rates will be implemented from 22nd September 2025.

RTE Act & Minority Educational Institutions Do you know❓ Minority institutions enjoy special rights under Article 30 of the Indian Constitution while ensuring access to education under the RTE Act, 2009.

ISRO has unveiled Vikram-32, India’s first indigenous microprocessor, proudly presented at Semicon India 2025. This breakthrough marks a giant leap in India’s journey towards self-reliance in semiconductor technology. 💡 👉 A true symbol of innovation, technology, and Atmanirbhar Bharat!

Anthropology Optional By Neeraj Sir ✅ Classes starting 6th September 2025 ✅ Expert guidance, structured notes & regular answer writing Interested candidates are encouraged to join as soon as possible. 🎯 Book your seat now! 📞 Call: 8820341777/8100765577/9938386166

🌏 The Tianjin Declaration: Signals from a Multipolar World The SCO Summit in Tianjin highlights shifting global power dynamics and the growing role of regional cooperation. From security to trade, this declaration reflects the emergence of a multipolar global order. A significant step in shaping the future of international relations!

Space isn’t just vast, it’s alive with rhythm! 🚀💫

Exercise Bright Star 2025 Indian Armed Forces proudly join the 19th biennial US-Egypt led tri-service drill in Egypt. This marks India’s growing role in strengthening global defence cooperation, interoperability, and strategic partnerships. ✨💪