Kochi, Kerala
Burning effigies is a fundamental right of a citizen as part of the freedom of speech, the state government has informed the Kerala high court. The government is against a ban on burning effigies.

The government is, however, preparing a bill to impose reasonable restrictions in view of the rise in violent protests. The government clarified its stance through an affidavit filed in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking statewide ban on burning effigies.

The government says the practice is uncivilized. The state, however, does not wish to impose a ban since it "will boomerang and invite protests from various organizations and political parties."