AMU Professor Granted Anticipatory Bail in Case of Sharing Explicit Content Related to Hindu Deities
Accusations and Investigation
* Prof. Harsh Kumar, an Associate Professor of Zoology at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been accused of sharing objectionable content related to Hindu deities on social media. * The allegations stemmed from a complaint filed by a local right-wing organization, alleging that the professor had shared offensive and disrespectful material on a WhatsApp group. * An investigation was launched by the Aligarh Police, leading to the professor's arrest on July 27, 2023.
Legal Proceedings
* Prof. Kumar's arrest sparked protests and condemnations from various Hindu organizations and political leaders. * The professor's legal team approached the Allahabad High Court for anticipatory bail, arguing that the charges against him were fabricated and politically motivated. * On August 8, 2023, the court granted Prof. Kumar anticipatory bail, subject to certain conditions.
Conditions of Bail
* Prof. Kumar must cooperate with the investigation and not tamper with evidence. * He must furnish a personal bond of Rs. 50,000 and two sureties of the same amount. * The professor has been barred from using social media platforms during the pendency of the case.
Reaction from Hindu Organizations
* Hindu organizations expressed disappointment and anger over the court's decision to grant bail to Prof. Kumar. * The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) condemned the bail order, calling it a "travesty of justice." * The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) also criticized the court's decision, claiming that it "undermines the sentiments of Hindus."
Conclusion
The case of Prof. Harsh Kumar has sparked controversy and raised concerns about freedom of speech and religious sensitivities. While the court has granted the professor bail, the investigation and legal proceedings are ongoing. It remains to be seen how this case will ultimately be resolved and what impact it will have on the debate surrounding the protection of religious beliefs and the limits of free expression.
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