On Thursday, December 19, the Supreme Court refused to entertain a contempt petition against the Uttar Pradesh administration and police for allegedly failing to prevent the ongoing ‘Dharam Sansad’ event in Ghaziabad, organized by Yati Narasinghanand, known for making inflammatory communal remarks against the Muslim community.
A bench led by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar directed the Uttar Pradesh authorities to ensure compliance with its previous orders to prevent hate speeches and to take precautionary measures. The Court emphasized that mere non-entertainment of the petition should not be interpreted as allowing violations.
The Court instructed the state authorities to monitor the event, maintain recordings, and adhere to its directives on hate speech prevention. Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj, representing the State of Uttar Pradesh, was urged to ensure these safeguards.
Petitioners’ Arguments
The petition, filed by former civil servants and activists including Aruna Roy, Retd IAS, and Syeda Hameed, alleged that the event’s advertisements promoted hate speeches against the Muslim community. They argued that the state police and district administration had failed to act on Supreme Court directives requiring proactive action against hate speech.
Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing the petitioners, argued that representations to authorities yielded no results. He further highlighted Yati Narasinghanand’s history of hate speech cases, noting that he is currently out on bail.
Court’s Observations
CJI Khanna clarified that the Supreme Court should not be the first court of recourse in such matters, suggesting that the petitioners approach the High Court instead. He also remarked that bail cancellations could be sought if violations occur.
The bench reiterated its earlier orders requiring district officers to take precautionary steps to prevent hate speech and emphasized strict adherence to those directions.
Background
The ‘Dharam Sansad’ events organized by Yati Narasinghanand have previously sparked controversy for inflammatory comments. Narasinghanand, who is facing criminal contempt proceedings in the Supreme Court for remarks against the judiciary, was arrested for hate speech in 2021 but later granted bail.
Case Details
Case Title: Aruna Roy & Ors v Shri Ajay Kumar Mishra & Ors
Diary No.: 58833/2024
Bench: Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar
The Supreme Court’s decision underscores its stance of not entertaining such petitions at the first instance while reaffirming the obligation of state authorities to prevent hate speech and uphold communal harmony.
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