Bhopal, 17th October 2024: A man, accused of chanting “Pakistan zindabad,” was granted bail by the Madhya Pradesh High Court on Tuesday, with specific conditions attached. The court ordered that Faizal must salute the national flag at a police station 21 times and shout “Bharat Mata ki jai” twice a month until his trial concludes.
Justice Dinesh Kumar Paliwal allowed Faizal’s bail on the condition that he report to Misrod Police Station in Bhopal on the first and fourth Tuesday of each month until the case is resolved. As part of his bail requirements, he must stand before the displayed tricolour at the station and salute it while chanting the patriotic slogan.
Justice Paliwal noted, “I believe that the applicant (Faizal) can be released on bail by imposing conditions that foster a sense of responsibility and pride for his country.”
The state government’s lawyer opposed the bail, labelling the accused a “habitual offender” with 14 prior criminal cases. The counsel argued that Faizal’s actions in shouting “Pakistan Zindabad, Hindustan Murdabad” aimed to incite hostility between groups and were detrimental to national harmony and integration.
The lawyer stated, “He is openly shouting slogans against the country where he was born and raised. If he is dissatisfied with this nation, he should consider relocating to a country that aligns with his sentiments.”
Faizal was arrested in May after a video emerged showing him shouting pro-Pakistan slogans and denouncing India. He is required to visit the police station between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. on the specified days.