Earlier, the apex court had noted that freedom of speech and expression must be understood by the police “at least now, after 75 years of the Constitution.”The court had also observed that the poem “Ae Khoon Ke Pyase Baat Suno” promoted a message of non-violence and criticized the police for their lack of sensitivity in lodging the FIR.The court explained that the poem had nothing to do with religion or anti-national activity and actually conveyed a message of non-violence. It pointed out that the poem suggested that even in the face of injustice and loss, one should respond with love and acceptance.The Supreme Court had earlier questioned the Gujarat Police’s actions, noting that the poem was ultimately a message of peace and not against any religion It emphasized that the poem conveyed a message of non-violence, even in situations involving violence, and that it was not aimed at any particular community.The case began when a resident of Jamnagar filed an FIR against Pratapgarhi, alleging that his social media post, which included a provocative song, was “detrimental to national integrity and hurt religious sentiments.”Pratapgarhi moved the Gujarat High Court to quash the FIR, arguing that the poem spread a message of love and non-violence. However, the Gujarat High Court refused to quash the FIR, stating that further investigation was needed and accusing Pratapgarhi of not cooperating with the investigation process.Subsequently, Pratapgarhi approached the Supreme Court for relief.The FIR, registered on January 3, 2024, accused Pratapgarhi of promoting enmity between different groups based on religion, race, and other charges related to national integration. Pratapgarhi vehemently denied the allegations.
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