Madhya Pradesh High Court Denies Bail To Man Accused Of Posting Letters Containing Dergotaory Words Against Jain Munis

The Madhya Pradesh High Court last week denied bail to a man (Surendra Kumar Jain) accused of posting typed letters against Jain munis and sages using derogatory and abusive language and thereby hurting the sentiments of the Jain community.

The bench of Justice Nandita Dubey was of the opinion that at this stage, when the investigation is still pending, it is not a fit case for grant of bail.

As per the prosecution's case, the accused, booked under Section 294-A, 500(1), 295-A, 500, 501, 502 (2) of IPC, posted typed, undated and unsigned letters against jain munis and sages using derogatory and abusive language. He was arrested on December 18, 2022.

Seeking bail in the case, he moved the High Court arguing that the letters in question were typed by one Munnalal Jain and it was posted at the instance of two people from Gujarat and that there is no allegation that he himself wrote the letters.

It was further argued that a perusal of the letters would show that no allegation or derogatory language is used against the jain religion and in these letters allegations have been made against the individuals, however, these individuals have not filed any case for defamation.

On the other hand, the counsel for the State as well as objector submitted that in the previous years also, such letters have been sent making allegations and defaming the jain munis and sages which has hurt the sentiments of jain community in general.

It was stated that the applicant has been arrested after he was caught in CCTV footage, and from him the letters which he was going to post were also seized. It is further pointed out that the applicant was paid Rs.40,000/-every time he posted the letters, and this has been verified from his account statement.

Taking into account the facts of the case, perusing the case dirary and the arguments of the counsels, the Court did not find it a fit case to grant bail and hence, the bail plea was dismissed.

Case title - Surendra Kumar Jain vs. State Of Madhya Pradesh

Case Citation: 2023 LiveLaw (MP) 10

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