‘Divisive Rhetoric’ on Pahalgam Killings: PIL in Allahabad HC Against Robert Vadra

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court, urging formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a thorough investigation into what has been described as "poisonous, separatist, and insensitive statements" made by Robert Vadra on recent Pahalgam terror attacks.

The PIL filed by the Hindu Front For Justice through its President, Advocate Ranjana Agnihotri, contends that Vadra's recent remarks on media platforms have created an environment of fear and discord among Hindus. The statement in question alluded to the recent terrorist attacks and allegedly blamed Hindu groups for exacerbating communal tensions, suggesting a deliberate targeting of Hindus.

In his statement, Vadra expressed condolences for the victims of the terror attacks while implicating the government's stance on Hindutva as unsettling for minorities, particularly Muslims. The PIL argues that these comments not only incited fear but also drew parallels to historical events like the partition of the country, implying a divisive agenda akin to the Muslim League's actions during India's independence struggle.

The petition further alleges that Vadra's remarks amount to victim blaming and constitute a clear violation under sections 299, 302, and 152 of the Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023, which pertain to hate speech and promoting enmity between religious groups. It asserts that Vadra's statements could incite further violence and communal disharmony if left unchecked by legal authorities.

Moreover, the PIL accuses Vadra of promoting separatist ideologies under the guise of political appeasement, suggesting an ulterior motive to divide communities along religious lines for electoral gain. The petitioners argue that such rhetoric not only undermines national unity but also endangers the constitutional rights of religious minorities to live peacefully without fear of reprisal.

The petition also raises concerns that Vadra is allegedly furthering the agenda of 'Gazwa-e-Hind'—a radical concept aimed at the Islamisation of India—by targeting the Hindu community through politically motivated victim-blaming.

Responding to these allegations, the PIL demands stringent action from the state to curb what it terms as "fundamentalist ethnic activities" and calls for immediate measures to prevent hate speech that targets Hindus. It emphasizes the need for state intervention to uphold communal harmony and prevent the propagation of divisive ideologies that could escalate into violence.

The PIL appeals to the high court for direction for formation of an SIT to investigate Vadra's statements thoroughly. The Allahabad High Court is expected to hear the PIL on Friday.

Case Title: Hindu Front for Justice and Others vs. Union of India and Others