Today (14th May): The Supreme Court refused to intervene in the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s decision to dismiss a criminal complaint against Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Insan, upholding the order. The courts found no evidence of intent to insult religious sentiments in his remarks about Sant Kabir and Guru Ravidas, based on historical context.
The Allahabad High Court denied bail to journalist Amit Maurya for alleged extortion and hate speech against PM Modi and CM Adityanath. Justice Chauhan stressed media misuse and the importance of secular journalism. The court condemned personal attacks and emphasized the need for constructive criticism and upholding democratic and secular principles in journalism.
Supreme Court Advocate Bhupendra Kumar Bharadwaj filed an FIR in Maharashtra, alleging theft and disturbance by villagers after performing rituals on property acquired from Dawood Ibrahim’s family. He pushed for inclusion of Section 295A of the Indian Penal Code. The property was acquired in a 2020 auction to establish an “anti-terrorist national front.”
Yesterday(on 15th March), The Supreme Court of India has granted interim anticipatory bail to Assam poet Rakib Uddin Ahmed, accused of posting an obscene poem about Hindu deities. The case sparks a debate on religious sentiments and freedom of expression. Despite significant pressure, the court extended protection after the poet issued a public apology.
The Calcutta High Court urged West Bengal to reconsider the names of lions Sita and Akbar at Bengal Safari Park, stating Sita’s reverence and Akbar’s secular accomplishments. The court disapproved of naming animals after religious or revered figures, suggesting a non-controversial renaming. The case has been reclassified as a Public Interest Litigation for further review. (Word count: 50)
The Calcutta High Court deliberated on a unique plea filed by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) regarding the naming and housing of a lioness named ‘SITA’ alongside a lion named ‘Akbar’ at Siliguri Safari Park. The petition raised concerns about religious sentiments of Hindus worldwide. The court postponed the hearing to consider the maintainability of the writ, leaving the issue unresolved for now.