SC Halts Criminal Proceedings Against SP Leader Swami Prasad Maurya in Ramcharitmanas Controversy

SC Halts Criminal Proceedings Against SP Leader Swami Prasad Maurya in Ramcharitmanas Controversy

VoM News Desk | January 25, 2024 | 02:49 PM IST | Breaking News, Courts & Law | Follow on Google News

SC Halts Criminal Proceedings Against SP Leader Swami Prasad Maurya in Ramcharitmanas Controversy

SC Halts Criminal Proceedings Against SP Leader Swami Prasad Maurya in Ramcharitmanas Controversy

The Supreme Court has intervened to stay criminal proceedings against Samajwadi Party leader Swami Prasad Maurya related to his alleged controversial remarks on Tulsidas’ Ramcharitmanas. The court issued a notice to the Uttar Pradesh government, seeking its response. Maurya challenged the Allahabad High Court’s decision, which rejected his plea to quash legal proceedings in a Pratapgarh district court. The case involves Maurya’s objectionable comments on certain “chaupayis” of Ramcharitmanas, claiming they insulted specific communities.

Freedom of Expression Defended in Court

During the hearing, Justice Mehta questioned the legality of considering Maurya’s opinion as an offense, emphasizing freedom of expression. The former UP Minister faces charges for allegedly stating that specific verses of Ramcharitmanas insulted particular communities. The Allahabad High Court had previously found sufficient grounds for a prima facie case against him, emphasizing the need for public representatives to avoid actions disrupting communal harmony.

Political Motivation Alleged by Maurya

Swami Prasad Maurya contends that the case against him is politically motivated and lacks substantial evidence. The FIR lodged against him includes charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code related to promoting enmity between different groups based on religion, insulting religious feelings, and creating hostility among classes. The Supreme Court’s intervention stays criminal proceedings, awaiting further developments in the case.

VoM News Desk

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