In a significant development, the Allahabad High Court has granted interim protection from arrest to Bhisham Pal Singh, a school teacher embroiled in controversy over his alleged presence at a meeting accused of inciting disrespect towards Hindu religious symbols.
A division bench, including Justice Mahesh Chandra Tripathi and Justice Prashant Kumar, issued the order in response to a writ petition filed by Singh. He faces allegations under the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 299, which pertains to deliberate actions meant to outrage religious feelings by insulting religion or religious beliefs.
The case stems from an FIR lodged in Gorakhpur district, citing a viral video where a woman allegedly made derogatory remarks against Hindu deities and urged attendees to desecrate temples by striking them with footwear. This act, according to the FIR, was intended to provoke communal disharmony and hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus.
Singh, represented by his counsel, argued that the charges against him were baseless and politically motivated. The defense highlighted that Singh was merely present at the meeting and did not engage in any activity that could be deemed unlawful. They pointed out that the informant in the case had a history of lodging frivolous complaints, as evidenced by multiple FIRs against her for disturbing public peace.
In its order dated February 7, the court directed the Uttar Pradesh government to respond with a counter affidavit within six weeks. Meanwhile, it decreed that Singh shall not be arrested till the next date of listing or until the police submit their report, provided he cooperates with the ongoing investigation.
