Synopsis: The FIR alleged that the accused not only liked and post objectionable remarks on social media about the Prime Minister, but he also commented on it.
The Allahabad High Court has declined to offer relief to Agra’s Ashad Khan, accused of commenting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media and damaging religious harmony. In the High Court, Ashad Khan challenged the FIR. The Court dismissed the appeal, refusing to interfere with the case brought by the FIR.
The petition was heard by the divisional bench of Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Samith Gopal.
An FIR against the petitioner has been lodged by Sachinder Sharma of Agra, at Jagdishpura Police Station. It is alleged that not only did he like and post objectionable remarks on social media about the Prime Minister, but he also commented on it. Such act have made comments that increase disharmony between the two parties, adversely affecting national unity and dignity. For this reason, a case was brought against him pursuant to sections 153A and B and 505(1)(b), IPC.
The petitioner argued that he is a student and has been implicated in false allegations, and no crime has been committed by him.
Advocate Pratham AK Sand, said that the complainant not only shared posts but also made offensive comments and shares. Records of social media comments were also sent to the Court.
The Court, after hearing both sides, declared that in this case a prima facie cognizable crime appeared to be committed. Therefore, there is no basis to intervene with the petition and to offer relief.
Hence, the appeal was rejected by the Court.