New Delhi:
A speech at an Hindu Yuva Vahini event in Delhi that called for a “Hindu Rashtra (Hindu nation)” at all costs was “not hate speech”, the Delhi Police had told the Supreme Court last week. The Supreme Court today expressed dissatisfaction at the Delhi Police statement and called for a “better affidavit”.
The Delhi Police conceded before the Supreme Court that it needed a relook at its affidavit that said no hate speech was made at a “Dharma Sansad” held in the capital on December 19, and said it would file a better one.
At the event, Sudarshan News TV Chief Editor Suresh Chavhanke had urged people to take an oath and had said: “Hindu rashtra ke liye ladenge, marenge aur zarurat padi toh maaarenge (We all pledge to make this country a Hindu nation. We will fight for it, die for it and, if needed. also kill for it).”
The event was organised by the rightwing group Hindu Yuva Vahini.
Senior lawyer Kapil Sibal today flagged the Delhi Police affidavit, which said, “Their motive was to save the ethics of the community.”
“What does this mean,” Mr Sibal questioned.
“This affidavit has been filed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police. Does he approve of this stand? or has he just reproduced the inquiry report by sub inspector level,” asked Justice AM Khanwilkar.
The Supreme Court said the fresh Delhi Police affidavit must be filed by May 4.
