Hate Speech Case | Investigation Over Hindu Yuva Vahini Event In Advanced Stage, Delhi Police Tell Supreme Court

The Delhi Police informed the Supreme Court on Monday that the investigation in the hate speech case over the Hindu Yuva Vahini event organised under the leadership of Sudarshan News TV editor Suresh Chavhanke in Delhi in December 2021 had reached an advanced stage. 

"The investigation is in an advanced stage. The voice sample report from Forensic lab needs to come", Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj told a bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud.

The bench, also comprising Justice PS Narasimha and Justice JB Pardiwala, was hearing a contempt petition filed by activist Tushar Gandhi alleging that the Delhi Police has violated the directions issued in the Tehseen Poonawalla case regarding investigation of mob violence cases.

The bench had earlier questioned the Delhi Police regarding its progress in the investigation in the case. Asking why the Delhi police took 5 months to register an FIR, the CJI had enquired if any one was arrested in the case. Today, Advocate Shadan Farasat, appearing for the petitioner, said–

"Let the chargesheet be filed and be placed before this court."

CJI DY Chandrachud, while dictating the order said–

"Mr KM Nataraj, learned ASG has submitted that the investigation is now at an advanced stage. The report of the voice sample is expected soon from forensic lab. Copy of the chargesheet to be placed on record. List in first week of April."

It may be recalled that the stand taken by the Delhi Police initially was that the speeches made during the Hindu Yuva Vahini event did not amount to any offence. Responding to another petition seeking action against the hate speech crimes, the Delhi Police stated in an affidavit that "no hate speech was given against any community" at the event. However, the Supreme Court expressed dissatisfaction with this stand of the Delhi Police and called for a "better affidavit" to be filed by a senior officer. Following the rap by the Court, the Delhi Police registered the FIR in May 2022.

Case Title: Tushar Gandhi v. Rakesh Asthana And Anr. Conmt. Pet(C) No. 41/2022 in WP(C) No. 732/2017

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