The Himachal Pradesh High Court has granted bail to Farooq Ahmad, who was arrested for allegedly sharing controversial videos on social media, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between mere criticism and content that incites violence or public disorder.
Justice Rakesh Kainthla made crucial observations on the application of sedition and hate speech laws in cases involving the sharing of social media content.
The court addressed Criminal Miscellaneous Petition No. 1473 of 2025, filed by Farooq Ahmad seeking regular bail in FIR No. 102 of 2025, registered for offences punishable under Sections 152, 196, and 197 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS).