Supreme Court slams Times Now, Nupur Sharma over Prophet remarks

The Supreme Court on Friday came down heavily on Times Now and asked why the TV news channel held a debate on a matter that was subjudice, Live Law reported. The court was referring to the infamous May 26 debate where now-suspended BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma made derogatory comments against Prophet Muhammad.

In the aftermath, several FIRs were filed against Sharma. Her comments had sparked protests, some violent, across the country and led to diplomatic backlash from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Indonesia, Jordan, Iraq, Libya, and the UAE.

Hearing a plea by Sharma which asked for all FIRs against her to be transferred to Delhi, a bench of Justices Surya Kant and JB Pardiwala said, “What is the business of the TV channel to discuss a matter which is subjudice, except to promote an agenda?”

The court called Sharma’s comments “disturbing” and argued that she was “singlehandedly responsible” for what was happening in the country, referring to the recent spate of violence. “What if she is the spokesperson of a party? She thinks she has back up power and makes any statement without respect to the law of the land,” said Justice Kant. He went on to say Sharma should apologise to the country.

The court refused to entertain Sharma’s petition. “The conscience of the court is not satisfied. You avail other remedies,” the court said.

Update:

A fresh petition has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking withdrawal of Justice Surya Kant’s remarks. Live Law reported that the petition has been moved by Gau Mahasabha leader Ajay Gautam. It has been addressed to the Chief Justice of India and requests that the CJI declare the remarks uncalled for.