"Speaking for Gaza & Palestine is not Patriotism", Bombay HC while denying go ahead to CPI(M) for protesting 'Genocide'

While dismissing a petition filed by the Communist Party of India (Marxist) seeking permission to protest the “genocide” in Gaza by Israel, the Bombay High Court on Friday, July 25, 2025, said people must first show patriotism towards citizens of their own country.

A division bench of Justices Ravindra Ghuge and Gautam Ankhad reportedly said, "....Speaking for Gaza and Palestine is not patriotism. Speak up for the causes in our own country. Practice what you preach."

Observing that India is already grappling with several issues, the bench questioned the petitioner’s focus on foreign matters that do not directly impact Indian citizens.

The CPI(M) had approached the court seeking permission to hold a public protest in Mumbai against Israel’s military action in Gaza.

Appearing for CPI(M), Senior Advocate Mihir Desai argued that the plea was about their right to free speech and expression under the Constitution. He added that the protest had nothing to do with India’s foreign policy or border relations and was not related to “Operation Sindoor.”

The bench, while referring to recent Supreme Court observations, reportedly said the right to free speech is being misused. It added that it is for the Government of India to decide its diplomatic stance on international matters like the Israel-Palestine conflict and questioned the petitioner on why he wanted to create a situation where the country would be forced to take sides.

Dismissing the plea, the bench reportedly observed that issues concerning international conflicts like Gaza are best handled by the Ministry of External Affairs, especially when the petitioner’s stand differs from that of the Government of India.