Delhi Court Directs FIR Registration Against Journalist Rana Ayyub for Alleged Insults to Hindu Deities

Updated: Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 1:12 [IST]

A court has instructed Delhi Police to file an FIR against journalist Rana Ayyub. This is due to alleged derogatory posts made in 2016-17, which reportedly insulted Hindu deities and incited religious discord. The court emphasised the need for a fair investigation into these claims.

Court Orders FIR Against Rana Ayyub — Representative image

Chief Judicial Magistrate Himanshu Raman Singh reviewed an application from an advocate requesting the FIR against Ayyub. The plea accused Ayyub of making offensive posts on the social media platform X. These posts allegedly included insults to Hindu deities and promoted anti-India sentiments.

Allegations and Legal Proceedings

The court's order, dated January 25, highlighted that the facts presented suggested cognisable offences under several sections of the IPC. These include Section 153A, which deals with promoting enmity between different groups based on religion or other factors, and Section 295A, concerning deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings.

The court stated that an investigation was necessary due to the seriousness of the allegations. It noted that the complainant's claims required state intervention through a police investigation, as the advocate could not gather evidence independently.

Investigation Directive

The court directed the station house officer (SHO) of South Delhi's cyber police station to convert the complaint into an FIR. It also instructed them to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. The case has been scheduled for Tuesday for a compliance report.

The allegations against Ayyub also involve Section 505 of the IPC, which pertains to statements leading to public mischief. The court found it necessary to order an investigation given the gravity of these accusations.

The plea before the court revealed potential cognisable offences, prompting it to direct city police for a fair probe. The court's decision underscores the importance of addressing such serious allegations through proper legal channels.