The Gauhati High Court on Thursday (February 26) issued notices in connection with a public interest litigation (PIL) and two related petitions seeking directions to restrain Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma from allegedly making hate speeches targeting minority communities.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar and Justice Arun Dev Choudhury issued notices to the Union of India, the State of Assam, the Director General of Police, and the Chief Minister. The matter will be taken up after the Bihu holidays.
The Gauhati High Court has issued notices on a PIL seeking action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over alleged hate speech. The court declined immediate interim relief and will hear the matter after the Bihu holidays. Notices were sent to the Union, State, DGP, and the Chief Minister.
What the High Court Said
The court issued notice on the petitioners’ plea for interim relief but declined to pass an immediate restraining order at this stage. The bench stated that notices must first be served before further directions can be considered.
According to reports, the court also observed that issuing notice to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was unnecessary at this stage.
Who Filed the PIL?
The PIL was filed by Assamese scholar Dr. Hiren Gohain and two others.
The petition alleges that despite publicly available videos of the Chief Minister’s speeches, the Assam Police has not registered a suo motu FIR. The petitioners claim this has created what they describe as a “climate of impunity.”
They have sought directions to prevent the Chief Minister from allegedly making statements that target minority communities and to ensure appropriate legal action.
Supreme Court’s Earlier Direction
Earlier this month, the Supreme Court advised petitioners seeking action against the Chief Minister for alleged hate speech to approach the High Court.
Following that direction, the matter was brought before the Gauhati High Court.
Arguments Presented in Court
Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for one of the petitioners, argued that the Chief Minister’s statements reflect what he described as a “consistent and habitual pattern.”
He contended that remarks related to issues such as “love jihad” and religious conversion had wider implications and urged the court to direct registration of an FIR and restrain further such speeches.
What Happens Next?
The case will be heard after the Bihu holidays, once notices are served and responses are filed by the concerned parties.
As the matter progresses, it is expected to draw attention within Guwahati and across Assam, given its legal and political significance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Gauhati High Court decide?
The court issued notices on the PIL and related petitions but declined to grant immediate interim relief. The matter will be heard after the Bihu holidays.
Who filed the petition?
The PIL was filed by Dr Hiren Gohain and two others, seeking action over alleged hate speech remarks.