After Delhi police says ‘no hate speech’ by Suresh Chavhanke at event, SC says ‘file better affidavit’

On Friday, the Supreme Court pulled up the Delhi police for its affidavit clearing Sudarshan News editor Suresh Chavhanke of hate speech.

“The affidavit has been filed by deputy commissioner of police. We hope he has understood the nuances,” LiveLaw quoted the apex court as saying. “Has he merely reproduced the inquiry report or applied his mind? Is it your stand as well or the reproduction of inquiry report of sub-inspector level officer?”

The affidavit in question was filed by the Delhi police in response to a PIL accusing Chavhanke of hate speech during an event in December. The police had alleged “nothing was said” at the Hindu Yuva Vahini event “which could create an environment of paranoia amongst any religion”.

The police also said, “We must practise tolerance to the views of others.”

Lawyer Kapil Sibal appeared in court today for the petitioners – journalist Qurban Ali and advocate Anjana Prakash, both of whom sought action against “hate speech” at the Hindu Yuva Vahini event and a dharam sansad held in Haridwar.

Sibal said, “They say they are ready to kill. The police say this is to save the ethics of the community. Your lordships may have to decide constitutionally what the ethics are.”

LiveLaw said the bench then asked whether a superior officer had “verified” the Delhi police’s affidavit. The court then granted additional solicitor general KM Nataraj two weeks’ time to file a “better affidavit”.

The December event

The event in question was held in Delhi on December 19 by members of the Hindu Yuva Vahini. Videos circulated at the time showed Chavhanke administering an oath to the members to make India a “Hindu nation”, and to fight, die and “kill if required” for the purpose.

Chavhanke posted the video on Twitter saying “Lions and Lionesses of Hindu Yuva Vahini taking the oath of Hindu Rashtra with me”. In his tweet, the Sudarshan News editor-in-chief tagged UP chief minister Adityanath.

Read about it here.