Guwahati, March 29 -- The Supreme Court of India on Friday stated that police officers as part of the State under Article 12 of the Constitution, should conduct a preliminary inquiry of the individual before registering a first information report (FIR)to protect freedom of expression of the individual.

The top court also stated to follow the Constitution and uphold its principles and values.

According to LiveLaw, the top court stated that referring to Article 51A(a), which mandates citizens to abide by the Constitution and respect its institutions, the Court observed that officers must uphold the fundamental rights of individuals, particularly the right to freedom of speech and expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a).

A bench ofJu...