The government on Wednesday informed the Lok Sabha that freedom of speech in India is not absolute and must function within the reasonable restrictions outlined in the Constitution, as it confirmed that the song “Sarke Chunar” has already been banned.Replying to a question, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, “The song that the honourable MP referred to has already been banned. I would like to clearly state, through you, to the entire House that we must operate within the framework of the reasonable restrictions placed on freedom of speech by the framers of the Constitution. Freedom of speech cannot be absolute; it has to exist in the context of society and culture.”Underlining the growing influence of digital platforms, where content spreads rapidly and can have far-reaching consequences, the minister called for “exercising great caution” especially in the time ahead.He also emphasised the need to safeguard vulnerable groups. “To protect society, particularly children, women and marginalised sections, we must take strict actions where necessary. The government is committed to taking such measures,” he assured the House.Notably, Nora and Sanjay Dutt-starrer song “Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke” from the Kannada film “KD-The Devil” has been receiving constant and massive backlash due to its lewd lyrics. The song has, however, been taken down from the platform.