Gujarat HC notice to state govt on petition by portal editor facing sedition charges

Patel’s petition seeking setting aside of the FIR against him, filed through advocate Anand Yagnik, was opposed by the public prosecutor appearing for the state.

The state submitted that the investigation is ongoing and it would be premature to halt the investigation by granting interim relief.

Yagnik, representing Patel, argued that no case of sedition was made and as per existing SC and HC judgments, it is well established that for constituting an offence of sedition, the words have to indicate incitement of violence.

“All the petitioner has reported is a speculation that there might be change in the leadership because of the failure of the present leader to handle the corona crisis. Also, the same was put to rest when Mansukhbhai Mandaviya tweeted and clarified things,” said Yagnik.

Patel is in judicial custody at Sabarmati Central Jail after his arrest on March 12. He was remanded to police custody until morning of May 14.

The matter is expected to be heard further on May 26 while his application seeking bail before the sessions court is yet to be heard.