Allahabad High Court Grants Relief To Professor Accused Of Making Derogatory Remarks About Hindu Deities

Aligarh Muslim University Professor Gets Anticipatory Bail in Hindu Mythology Row Case

Allahabad High Court Grants Relief to Professor Accused of Making Derogatory Remarks About Hindu Deities

Background of the Case

Professor Mohd. Afzal ur Rehman of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) was booked under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 153-A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion) and Section 295-A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings) based on a First Information Report (FIR) filed against him.

The FIR was lodged after a complaint was filed by a Hindu outfit, alleging that Professor Rehman had made derogatory remarks about Hindu deities during a lecture at the university.

Following the complaint, police registered an FIR and began an investigation. Professor Rehman was subsequently arrested and sent to jail.

Allahabad High Court's Decision

Professor Rehman filed a plea for anticipatory bail in the Allahabad High Court, which was granted on Tuesday (date).

The court observed that the professor had been granted protection from arrest by the lower court and that there was no immediate threat of his arrest.

The court also noted that the professor had cooperated with the investigation and was not likely to abscond.

Reaction to the Decision

The Hindu outfit that had filed the complaint against Professor Rehman expressed disappointment over the High Court's decision.

On the other hand, Professor Rehman's supporters welcomed the decision and said that it was a victory for freedom of expression.

Significance of the Case

The case has sparked a debate about freedom of expression and the limits of academic freedom in India.

Critics of the FIR argue that it is an attempt to stifle dissent and suppress academic freedom.

Supporters of the FIR, on the other hand, argue that it is necessary to protect religious sentiments and prevent hate speech.

The case is expected to have a significant impact on future discussions about freedom of expression and academic freedom in India.

It is important to note that the professor has been granted anticipatory bail, which means that he is not guilty of the charges against him until proven otherwise in a court of law.