Hate Speech Row: Investigation Regarding Hindu Yuva Vahini Event Is In Advanced Stage, Delhi Police Informs SC

The Delhi Police informed the Supreme Court on Monday that the investigation into the hate speech case involving the Hindu Yuva Vahini event by Sudarshan News TV editor Suresh Chavhanke had reached an advanced stage.

The bench comprising of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice PS Narasimha and Justice JB Pardiwala, was hearing a contempt petition filed by social activist Tushar Gandhi, alleging that the Delhi Police has violated the directions  regarding the investigation of mob violence cases.

“The investigation is in an advanced stage. The forensic lab’s voice sample report is due”, Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj informed the court.

A bench headed by CJI DY Chandrachud had previously directed the Delhi police to file an affidavit on the progress of the investigation after questioning the Delhi police over its delay in filing a FIR over incidents of hate speech during the Hindu Yuva Vahini event in Delhi in December 2021.

“Why do you require 5 months to register FIR? What steps have you taken after May 4? What steps have you made? Who’s the IO? What progress has been made in 8 months? If you register FIR 5 months later & there is no substantial progress 8 months later- how can you comply?” the CJI inquired.

Advocate Shadan Farasat, appearing for the petitioner, said, “Let the chargesheet be filed and be placed before this court.“

It may be recalled that the Delhi Police initially stated that the speeches made during the Hindu Yuva Vahini event did not constitute an offence.

In an affidavit in response to another petition seeking action against hate speech crimes, the Delhi Police stated that “no hate speech was given against any community” at the event.

However, the Supreme Court voiced displeasure with the Delhi Police’s stance and asked that a senior officer submit a “better affidavit” in its place.

 After the court’s judgement, the Delhi Police filed the FIR in May 2022.