Did the Allahabad HC Grant Interim Anticipatory Bail to Lucknow University Professor Over Pahalgam Attack Post?
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Synopsis
The Allahabad High Court's decision to grant interim anticipatory bail to Dr. Madri Kakoti raises significant questions about freedom of expression and the legal boundaries surrounding social media posts. As an academic, her words have sparked controversy amid serious allegations. This case highlights the ongoing tension between state actions and individual rights in India.
Key Takeaways
- Interim anticipatory bail granted by Allahabad HC.
- Dr. Kakoti's case emphasizes the tension between freedom of expression and legal scrutiny.
- FIR lacked specific details about the alleged post.
- Case highlights concerns regarding academic freedom.
- The ruling could set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
Lucknow, June 9 (NationPress) The Allahabad High Court granted interim anticipatory bail on Monday to Dr. Madri Kakoti, an Assistant Professor in the Linguistics Department at Lucknow University. She was booked by the Uttar Pradesh Police due to her social media post related to the tragic Pahalgam attack.
Dr. Kakoti sought the Allahabad High Court’s intervention after her anticipatory bail application was denied by a Lucknow court. The FIR against her included serious charges under various sections of the Bhartiya Nyay Samhita (B.N.S) and the I.T. Act.
Fearing imminent arrest due to the nature of the charges that could lead to life imprisonment, she argued that the FIR lacked details regarding her alleged online post, raising significant questions about its legality.
According to her plea, the FIR failed to specify any actual quotes or posts, despite the accusations being solely based on her digital expressions. “The FIR does not cite a single specific statement or post, even though the allegations hinge entirely on the applicant’s online comments,” her plea stated.
In her tweet, Dr. Kakoti remarked, “Shooting someone after inquiring about their religion is terrorism. Lynching someone based on their religion, terminating their job for the same reason, denying them housing, and demolishing a home for such inquiries all signify terrorism. Acknowledge the true terrorists.”
The complaint was lodged by a member of the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), who accused Dr. Kakoti of making anti-national and inflammatory remarks through her social media account (@ms_medusssa) after the terrorist attack in J&K’s Pahalgam.
Point of View
It is essential that we remain committed to the principles of justice and fairness. The Allahabad High Court's decision to grant Dr. Kakoti anticipatory bail underscores the importance of upholding individual rights while navigating the complexities of freedom of expression. It is our duty to ensure that legal actions do not infringe upon the fundamental rights guaranteed to citizens.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Dr. Madri Kakoti's arrest?
Dr. Madri Kakoti was booked by the Uttar Pradesh Police for her social media post related to the Pahalgam terror attack, which led to serious charges against her.
What charges were filed against her?
She faced charges under various sections of the Bhartiya Nyay Samhita and the I.T. Act, including offenses that could lead to life imprisonment.
What did Dr. Kakoti's social media post say?
Her post commented on terrorism related to religious discrimination, raising concerns about freedom of expression.
Who filed the complaint against Dr. Kakoti?
The complaint was lodged by a member of the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP).
What was the outcome of her anticipatory bail plea?
The Allahabad High Court granted her interim anticipatory bail, allowing her to avoid immediate arrest.
