“Social Media Celebrations After Bail Not Sufficient For Cancellation Without Proof Of Threats”: Delhi HC

Delhi High Court

The Delhi High Court has ruled that uploading celebratory videos or social media posts after being released on bail can’t, by itself, be grounds for cancellation—unless it can be proven that such content poses a specific threat or act of intimidation toward the complainant.

Justice Ravinder Dudeja made the observation while dismissing a petition filed by Zafeer Alam, who sought cancellation of bail granted to Manish, accused in a case registered under Sections 436, 457, 380, and 34 of the IPC at Narela Industrial Area Police Station.

The complainant had alleged that Manish and his associates violated bail conditions by spreading fear in the neighbourhood, brandishing weapons, and issuing indirect threats on social media. Alam also claimed that a co-accused was spotted outside his residence on June 12, 2025, further intensifying his concerns.

‘Celebratory Posts Not Intimidation Without Evidence’

Rejecting the allegations, the court held that sharing videos or status updates celebrating bail does not automatically constitute intimidation unless there is clear evidence of intent to threaten the complainant.

“Some screenshots have been placed on record, but it is not visible from them that they were posted with a view to intimidating the complainant,” the order stated.

Justice Dudeja noted that bail cancellation demands “very cogent and overwhelming circumstances,” such as interference with the judicial process, abuse of liberty, or attempts to influence witnesses.

No Complaint Or Evidence Of Threats

The court also pointed out that no police complaint had been lodged alleging intimidation or threats by the accused after his release on bail. In the absence of concrete evidence or corroboration, the allegations were deemed unsubstantiated.