The Allahabad High Court has expressed reservations regarding a case involving Jitendra Tyagi’s comments on Sunni Muslims in the film “Ram Ki Janmabhoomi.” Tyagi’s remarks have sparked controversy.
Uttar Pradesh: Recently, the Allahabad High Court expressed concern over a criminal case against Jitendra Tyagi, formerly known as Waseem Rizvi before his conversion from Islam to Hinduism, concerning remarks made in his movie Ram Ki Janmabhoomi.
Justice Rahul Chaturvedi referenced the Supreme Court’s view in a similar case involving the film Loveyatri, highlighting the limited scope for criminal cases related to films cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). He indicated that based on the precedent, no case against Tyagi/Waseem Rizvi seemed tenable.
Despite reservations, the High Court opted not to quash the criminal case but directed Tyagi to file a detailed discharge application before the trial court, respecting the procedural framework outlined in the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Advocate Abhinav Singh represented Jitendra Tyagi/Waseem Rizvi, while Government Advocate SP Tiwari appeared for the Uttar Pradesh Government.
“After perusing the aforesaid judgment, it seems that no case against the applicant (Tyagi/ Waseem Rizvi) is made out,”
Justice Chaturvedi said.
The cause of action arises from the allegations that Tyagi made derogatory remarks about prominent figures in the Muslim Sunni Sect in the film Ram Ki Janmabhoomi, leading to communal tension concerns. He faces charges under Sections 153A and 504 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), initiated by Abdul Fahid Farooqui.
“The concerned court, after taking personal bond, may release the applicant with or without surety and thereafter, the applicant shall move detailed discharge application under the appropriate sections of Cr.P.C. raising all the legal as well as factual points for the determination of the same by the court concerned,” the High Court ordered.
The High Court’s directive, issued on February 13, advised Tyagi to pursue relief through a discharge application under Section 88 of the CrPC, allowing him to participate in trial proceedings without arrest by executing a bond. The trial court has been instructed to adjudicate on the discharge application within six weeks.
CASE TITLE: Syed Waseem Rizvi v State
