Bombay High Court Directs Police Investigation into Audio Clip with Alleged Gandhi Remarks
The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court issued a significant directive on Monday, ordering the Sitabuldi police to thoroughly examine an audio clip that allegedly contains objectionable remarks against Mahatma Gandhi. The court emphasized that if the investigation reveals a cognizable offense, appropriate legal proceedings must be initiated immediately.
Petition Filed by Congress District President
This development came during a hearing of a petition filed by Ashwin Bais, the Congress district president. A division bench comprising Justices Anil Pansare and Nivedita Mehta presided over the case, delivering clear instructions to the investigating agency.
The bench stated: "The investigating agency must go through the audio clip to examine whether a cognizable offense is disclosed and, if so, to take appropriate action immediately."
Background of the Controversial Lecture
The plea is connected to a lecture held on February 16 at the Chitnavis Centre, organized by the Sakal Hindu Samaj. During this event, speaker Pushpendra Kulshrestha allegedly made controversial statements about Mahatma Gandhi, sparking public outrage and legal complaints.
According to the petition, police complaints were filed on two separate occasions:
- First complaint filed with Sitabuldi police on February 28
- Second complaint filed before CP Singal on March 4
Despite these formal complaints, no offense had been registered prior to the court's intervention, prompting the petitioner to seek action under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Court's Disposition of Intervention Plea
In a related procedural matter, the court also disposed of an intervention plea filed by Sarvodaya Ashram. The bench determined that the organization's presence was not necessary for this particular case, granting them liberty to file a separate petition if they wished to pursue the matter independently.
Next Hearing Scheduled
The court has scheduled the next hearing in this matter for April 8, when further developments in the police investigation and potential legal actions will be reviewed. This case highlights the judiciary's active role in ensuring proper investigation of alleged offenses against national figures, maintaining legal accountability in matters of public concern.
