Karnataka High Court Dismisses Case Against Two for ‘Jai Shri Ram’ Slogans at Mosque
The Karnataka High Court has dismissed a criminal case against two individuals from Dakshina Kannada district who were accused of shouting ‘Jai Shri Ram’ slogans at a mosque. The case was heard by Justice M Nagaprasanna, who questioned how such slogans could inflame religious sentiments or cause harm.
On September 24, 2023, unknown individuals reportedly entered the mosque premises on Kadaba-Mardala road in Aittoor village and shouted the slogans. The mosque filed a complaint after reviewing CCTV footage, which showed youths on bikes shouting the slogans. The complaint alleged that these actions were intended to incite communal riots.
A case was filed against Kirtan Kumar and NM Sachin Kumar under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including criminal trespass. However, the accused argued that since the mosque is a public place, their entry did not constitute trespass. The High Court, referencing a Supreme Court judgment, ruled that actions not affecting peace or public order do not violate IPC Section 295A.
Doubts Revealed
Karnataka High Court -: The Karnataka High Court is a big building where important judges work. They make decisions about laws and help solve big problems in the state of Karnataka, which is in the southern part of India.
Jai Shri Ram -: Jai Shri Ram is a phrase that means ‘Hail Lord Ram’. Lord Ram is a very important god in Hinduism, and people say this phrase to show respect and devotion to him.
Mosque -: A mosque is a special place where Muslims go to pray and worship. It is similar to a temple for Hindus or a church for Christians.
Dakshina Kannada district -: Dakshina Kannada is a district in the state of Karnataka, India. It is known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage.
Justice M Nagaprasanna -: Justice M Nagaprasanna is a judge at the Karnataka High Court. Judges like him help make fair decisions in legal cases.
CCTV -: CCTV stands for Closed-Circuit Television. It is a type of camera used to record what is happening in a place, like a security camera.
Trespass -: Trespass means entering someone’s property without permission. It is like going into someone’s house or garden without asking them first.
IPC Section 295A -: IPC Section 295A is a part of Indian law that deals with hurting religious feelings. It is used when someone does something that can upset or offend people because of their religion.