The Allahabad High Court has denied bail to Ansar Ahmad Siddiqui, who was accused of sharing a Facebook post supporting Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir.
The court termed the post as anti-national and against the sovereignty and unity of India.
Justice Siddharth, delivering the order, remarked that increasing judicial tolerance towards anti-national elements has emboldened such acts.
The court added, “The accused’s action was not only disrespectful to the Constitution but also directly challenged the sovereignty of India.”
Post promoted jihad and supported Pakistan
According to the prosecution, Siddiqui shared the controversial post on May 3, which allegedly included slogans like “Pakistan Zindabad”, promoted jihad, and called upon “brothers to support Pakistani brothers.”
The post, the court said, had the potential to incite hatred and was detrimental to national sentiment and integrity.
Right to freedom not for those who undermine the nation: Court
The judge observed that although Siddiqui is a 62-year-old citizen of independent India, his “irresponsible and anti-national behaviour” makes him unworthy of seeking protection under Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to personal liberty.
Justice Siddharth emphasised that Article 51A of the Constitution lays down the fundamental duties of every citizen—to uphold the Constitution, respect national symbols, and preserve the country’s unity and integrity.
“A person acting against these values cannot demand constitutional protection,” the court noted.
The state counsel informed the court that the Facebook post came shortly after the killing of 26 innocent Hindus by terrorists in Pahalgam, Srinagar. This timing, the government argued, clearly showed that the accused supported terrorist activities on religious grounds.
Court directs fast-track trial
After reviewing the arguments, the court rejected the bail plea and instructed the trial court to expedite proceedings.
Justice Siddharth further stated, “Such crimes have become common because courts are being overly lenient with anti-national elements. Granting bail at this stage would be inappropriate.”
The accused has been charged under Sections 197 and 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), with the case registered at Chhatari police station in Bulandshahr district.
This ruling underscores the judiciary’s growing concern over the misuse of social media for anti-national propaganda and reflects the court’s intent to treat such actions with zero tolerance.
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