The defence also submitted that the prosecution case was based on documentary and technical evidence, leaving no scope for tampering with the investigation. It further contended that similarly worded social media posts by others had not resulted in coercive action.

Opposing the plea, the prosecution submitted that technical investigation linked the social media account and the mobile number used for the post to the accused. It argued that the material shared was “provocative, objectionable and capable of inciting communal disharmony and disturbing peace and order”, and contended that further aspects of the case were yet to be unearthed while other accused were yet to be arrested.

Dismissing the plea, Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Sonali Singh observed that presentation of challan in the court is not a ground to grant bail to the accused/applicant, especially when there are serious allegations against the accused.

“Hence, keeping in view these facts and circumstances and the gravity of the offences and seriousness of the allegations, no ground is made out to release the accused on bail,” the court held.