Delhi Court Issues FIR Against Journalist Rana Ayyub Over Allegations of Insulting Hindu Deities

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Delhi Court Issues FIR Against Journalist Rana Ayyub Over Allegations of Insulting Hindu Deities

A Delhi court has ordered the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against journalist Rana Ayyub for allegedly insulting Hindu deities and promoting anti-India sentiments through her social media posts. The order, issued by Chief Judicial Magistrate Himanshu Raman Singh, follows a complaint filed by advocate Amita Sachdeva, who accused Ayyub of making derogatory remarks about Hindu gods and figures.

Key Takeaways

  • Delhi court orders FIR against journalist Rana Ayyub.
  • Allegations include insulting Hindu deities and promoting anti-India sentiments.
  • The complaint was filed by advocate Amita Sachdeva.
  • Ayyub’s posts date back to 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2022.

The court’s decision comes after a thorough examination of the complaint, which highlighted several posts made by Ayyub on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The posts allegedly demeaned Hindu God Ram, glorified Ravana, and portrayed figures such as Sita and Draupadi in a disrespectful manner. Additionally, Ayyub referred to Hindutva leader Veer Savarkar as a terrorist sympathizer.

In her complaint, Sachdeva argued that Ayyub’s actions were intended to promote enmity on religious grounds and outrage religious sentiments. The court found sufficient grounds to warrant a police investigation, citing potential violations of Sections 153A (promoting enmity between different groups), 295A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings), and 505 (statements conducing public mischief) of the Indian Penal Code.

Background of the Case

  • Initial Complaint: Amita Sachdeva filed her complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal in November 2024, seeking criminal action against Ayyub.
  • Court Proceedings: After the Delhi Police failed to act on her complaint, Sachdeva approached the Saket Court, requesting an FIR.
  • Court’s Findings: The court noted that the nature of the allegations warranted police investigation due to their gravity.

The court’s order directs the Station House Officer of the Cyber Police Station in South Delhi to convert the complaint into an FIR and conduct a thorough investigation. This legal action against Ayyub adds to the ongoing debates surrounding freedom of speech and press freedom in India, particularly in the context of rising tensions between different religious communities.

Implications for Press Freedom

  • Rana Ayyub’s Profile: Ayyub is a prominent journalist known for her investigative work, particularly regarding the 2002 Gujarat riots. She has faced significant backlash and threats from right-wing groups in India, which have intensified in recent years.
  • Concerns Over Censorship: The case raises concerns about the potential for censorship and the chilling effect on journalists and activists who criticize dominant narratives or challenge religious sentiments.

As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this case will impact Ayyub’s career and the broader landscape of journalism in India. The court’s decision underscores the delicate balance between protecting religious sentiments and upholding the principles of free expression in a diverse society.

Sources

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