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When literature, expression, and the law confront each other, the debate is not confined to the courts but reaches every section of society. A similar case emerged concerning a book by the famous author Arundhati Roy, on which the Supreme Court delivered a very significant and clear-messaging verdict on Friday. This decision brought disappointment for some, but was a sigh of relief for the author and the publishing world.
Arundhati Roy Book Cover Controversy: What was the Case?
The cover of Arundhati Roy’s book, Mother Mary Comes to Me, features a photograph of her smoking a cigarette. A petition was filed against this very image. The petition claimed that the photograph violates advertising laws related to tobacco and cigarettes and could send a wrong message.
This petition had previously been dismissed by the Kerala High Court, after which the matter reached the Supreme Court. The petitioner demanded a ban on the book’s sale, display, and circulation, and an order for the publisher to recall all copies.
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Why Did the Supreme Court Not Change the High Court’s Decision?
The bench, comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, clearly stated that there was no reason to interfere with the Kerala High Court’s order. According to the court, this matter does not fall under the category of promotion or advertisement of tobacco products.
The Court also acknowledged that a disclaimer is already present on the book and that neither the book nor its cover promotes smoking. The judges further said that it would not be right to subject every photograph or visual to the scrutiny of the law.
“She Does Not Need Any Publicity” — The Court’s Crucial Remark
During the hearing, the Court specifically noted that Arundhati Roy is a well-known and respected author. Her work does not need any picture or controversial publicity to gain recognition.
The Court was of the view that people who buy the book do so for the author’s ideas and writing, and not because of the picture on the cover. This was the reason why the court deemed the petition unnecessary.
Front Cover, Warning, and Freedom of Expression
The petitioner argued that a statutory warning should have been placed on the book’s front cover. On this, the Supreme Court clarified that this is not a public hoarding or an advertisement for a tobacco product. It is a literary work, purchased by readers who read with understanding.
The Court also indirectly conveyed the message that it is essential to maintain a balance between creative expression and personal disagreement.
Impact of the Verdict and the Larger Message
The verdict is not limited to just one book or one photograph. It has become an example of the balance between freedom of expression, creative thought, and the interpretation of the law. The Supreme Court has made it clear that not every controversy becomes a matter of law.
Disclaimer:
This article is written for informational and public interest purposes only. The information provided herein is based on public sources. The Nest of News does not take responsibility for any legal claims or interpretations.
Dr. Bidyut Barun Sarmah, with 22+ years of experience in print, electronic, and digital media, holds an MA and PhD in Mass Communication and Journalism. He has worked with AIR, Doordarshan, and the Publication Division under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. A published author and researcher, Dr. Sarmah writes extensively in both Assamese and English. He was also awarded a prestigious fellowship by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, for his study on journalistic literature—an achievement that highlights his depth of scholarship and contribution to media studies. At Nest of News, he leads the editorial team and contributes across diverse topics.