The Ottapalam Judicial Magistrate of the First Class Court in Kerala has dismissed a private complaint filed against editors of Media One News Channel regarding alleged disrespectful remarks about freedom fighter Bhagat Singh. The court ruled that there was “no intentional insult” aimed at provoking a breach of peace, as reported by Live Law.
The complaint was lodged against C. Dawood, the Managing Editor of Media One, along with editors Pramod Raman and Nishad Rawther. The complainant accused Dawood of making “abusive, unpatriotic and derogatory remarks” about Bhagat Singh during a live broadcast from Jeddah on December 11, 2024. During the discussion, Dawood commented that Bhagat Singh, who was convicted and executed for his actions during the freedom struggle, transitioned in public perception from being labeled a “terrorist” by the British to a celebrated “martyr” following India’s independence on August 15, 1947. He suggested that a change in historical context could redefine such labels.
Following Dawood’s comments, the youth wing of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), known as the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), initiated a statewide campaign and conducted rallies across approximately 100 locations. Dawood’s remarks arose in the context of discussing how individuals associated with political strife can be labeled as “terrorists,” a term often used by various factions, including some from the Left. He highlighted that the designation of “terrorist” is not static and can evolve over time, citing Bhagat Singh as an example.
The complainant viewed Dawood’s statements as detrimental to Bhagat Singh’s legacy and subsequently filed the case under specific sections of the Indian Penal Code — namely Sections 153A (promoting enmity) and 505(2) (statements conducive to public mischief).
During the court proceedings overseen by Judicial Magistrate Sajitha M.N., the accused appeared after receiving notice, and the entire broadcast was reviewed. The court concluded that there were insufficient grounds to take cognizance under various sections relating to acts that could harm the integrity of India or incite enmity. It stated, “The complaint has no case that due to the act of the accused, the sovereignty or integrity of India was challenged. His only contention is that his feelings were injured. After reviewing the programme, the court finds no intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace.”
The court further declared that “this statement will not harm the reputation of Shaheed Bhagat Singh. A prima facie case is not made against the accused.”
Advocate Ameen Hassan, representing the Media One editorial team, noted that the court recognized that the statements attributed to his clients did not provoke, insult, or incite disharmony as alleged. He emphasized that the telecast contained no threats to India’s sovereignty or disruptions of public order, and that Bhagat Singh was treated with respect throughout the discussion.
Hassan characterized the dismissal of the complaint as an affirmation of the significance of media freedom and responsible journalism.
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