After criminal defamation, sedition is fast emerging as an instrument of intimidation.

In May 2016, the Supreme Court (Justices Dipak Misra and Pant) refused to de-criminalize defamation in a judgment full of linguistic excesses and judicial faults.

So, now the powerful can use criminal defamation to oppress whom they do not like.

The judgment belied the promise to discipline its use. Justice Misra and Lalit got an excellent opportunity to lay down guidelines in respect of an increasing use of sedition. But they did not rise to the challenge.