Freedom of speech shouldn't be stretched too far: Hosbale

Senior RSS leader Dattatreya Hosbale today said that freedom of speech should be used with caution, and it should be ensured that it is not helping the forces which are against the country's development.
Speaking at a function here, the sah-sarkaryvah (joint general secretary) of the RSS, said, "There would be some intellectual challenges before the country in coming days. Regionalism is posing new challenges before us.
"Freedom of speech is there, (but) if we stretch it too far, then non-issues become issues...Freedom is not absolute but it has some reasonable restrictions," he said.
"There is freedom of expression but if it is stretched too far, (then it should be seen if) we are supporting those who are against the development of India? We must think whether such opposition is in reality supporting the development of the country or supporting those who wish to damage it," he said.

"Intellectuals should obtain moral authority for making any comments on social issues. Those who take favours from the government, go on tours and then make social comments should lead a transparent life. Otherwise these people are not taken seriously," he said.