JENISH SHARMA Vs. STATE OF PUNJAB

JUDGEMENT

(1.) These petitions depict very sorry state of affairs and negative role played by the Investigating Officer. 7 young boys are sought to be implicated in a criminal case on the ground that they have hurt religious sentiments.

(2.) As per the case set up by the prosecution, a video went viral in which Tanuj Monga is depicted carrying a bowl (baatta) of liquor in his hand and the same is being distributed amongst themselves as if it is a holy water (Amrit). Amrit is distributed/sprinkled in Sikh religion. They are also alleged to be seen raising slogans to the effect that come and take the holy water from the bowl (baatta). Hence, they have openly hurt the sentiments of Sikh religion.

(3.) Investigating Officer present in Court has submitted that the petitioners in all the cases have joined investigations, cooperated and are not required for further custodial interrogation, at this stage, therefore, while confirming the interim protection granted on 24.07.2019, 30.07.2019, 26.08.2019, 09.08.2019, 31.07.2019, 05.08.2019 and 05.08.2019, it is considered appropriate to direct Commissioner of Police, Ludhiana, to re-examine the entire case file and take a call within 15 days from today whether it would be appropriate to continue with the criminal prosecution of these young boys who may have committed a small mistake.