Supreme Court Questions Gujarat Police Over FIR Against Congress MP
NEW DELHI: In a recent hearing, the Supreme Court of India raised concerns regarding the Gujarat police’s decision to file an FIR against Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi over a controversial social media post. The post featured a poem titled ‘Ae khoon ke pyase baat suno’ (Those who are bloodthirsty, listen to us), which the court noted promotes non-violence and is not anti-national or religious in nature.
Freedom of Speech Under Scrutiny
The Supreme Court emphasized that “in 75 years of the existence of the Constitution, freedom of speech and expression needs to be understood by the police.” During the proceedings, Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan highlighted the importance of sensitivity and understanding in interpreting creative expressions. They noted that the poem advocates love in the face of injustice, not violence.
The Role of Creativity
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that the poem was misinterpreted by the public, leading to unrest. The Supreme Court countered this notion by stating, “This is the problem. Now, nobody has any respect for creativity.” Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Pratapgarhi, requested the court to also address the Gujarat High Court’s approval of the FIR, a request met with resistance from Mehta.
Interim Relief Granted
The Supreme Court granted interim relief to Pratapgarhi, halting any proceedings stemming from the FIR. The case underscores the ongoing debate surrounding free speech in India, particularly concerning artistic expression.
As discussions continue, it’s essential to stay informed about the evolving landscape of free speech and legal interpretations in India. For the latest updates, visit Looffers.com, your go-to source for news and promotions.
