Guwahati, Aug. 30 -- Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan has said students cannot be threatened or subjected to punitive action merely for expressing views that differ from those in positions of authority, stressing that the right to question is central to a democratic society.

Addressing the 13th convocation of National Law University, Delhi, on Saturday, Justice Bhuyan said questioning authority should not be treated as an act of defiance. He emphasised that universities must provide an environment where students can express different opinions, challenge established positions and engage in difficult discussions.

Justice Bhuyan said treating dissent as something that warrants punishment would amount to a misuse of power and would be inc...