SC Grants Interim Protection To Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi In FIR Over Instagram Clip With “Ae Khoon Ke Pyase Baat Suno” Poem
The Supreme Court on 24 January, issued a notice on Congress MP and poet Imran Pratapgarhi’s plea challenging the Gujarat High Court’s refusal to quash an FIR filed against him. The FIR was registered in connection with an Instagram post featuring his poem, “Ae khoon ke pyase baat suno”, which was alleged to disturb social harmony.

A bench of Justices Abhay Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan granted interim relief, directing that no further action be taken on the FIR until further orders. The Court set the next hearing for February 10, 2025.

Kapil Sibal, representing Pratapgarhi, criticized the Gujarat High Court for dismissing the petition without issuing a notice, questioning the fairness of such a decision. Pratapgarhi defended the poem as promoting love and non-violence.

The FIR, lodged by the Jamnagar Police, alleged violations under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023, including Section 196, which pertains to promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc.

The High Court justified its decision, citing Pratapgarhi’s non-cooperation with the investigation and the need for further inquiry. The Court also noted that, as a Member of Parliament, Pratapgarhi was expected to act responsibly and avoid posts that could disrupt communal harmony.

Despite notices requiring his presence, Pratapgarhi had not responded, prompting the High Court to reject his plea to quash the FIR. The Supreme Court’s interim relief offers Pratapgarhi temporary protection while the case proceeds, setting the stage for further legal developments in this high-profile matter.

Source: – Live Law
By: – Rajat Ranjan
Follow me on Instagram- @therajatranjan
Follow us on Instagram- @SadhanaSources