Kerala High Court Denies Anticipatory Bail To BJP Leader P C George In Hate Speech Case

The Kerala High Court today dismissed the anticipatory bail application filed by BJP leader PC George, booked for allegedly making hate speech against the Muslim community during a channel debate.Justice P V Kunhikrishnan dismissed the bail application. The allegation against PC George was that he made remarks against the Muslim community, stating that they are terrorist and communalists. It was also alleged that PC George said that there is no Muslim living in India who is not a terrorist. It is also alleged that he made comments to promote hatred against the Muslim community and stated that they must migrate to Pakistan.Crime was registered against him under Sections 196(1)(a), Section 299 of the BNS and Section 120 (o) (penalty for causing nuisance and violation of public order) Kerala Police Act.Senior Counsel P. Vijayabhanu, appearing for George submitted that he did not intentionally make statements or speeches promoting hatred or ill will against the Muslim community. It was pointed out that offences under Section 196(1)(a) and Section 299 of the BNS would not be attracted since there was no deliberate or malicious attempt to promote hatred against the Muslim community. It was argued that the statements were made because he was provoked by the co-panelist. It was further stated that PC George has apologised also and that he must be granted bail.The Court however remarked that former MLA is not fit to be a political leader if he can be easily provoked."Then the Senior Counsel said that he made such a submission, because he was provoked by the co-panelist. I am forced to say that, a politician like the petitioner, who has about 30 years of experience as an MLA can be provoked easily like this, he does not deserve to continue as a political leader."The State had strongly opposed to anticipatory bail plea of PC George stating that earlier also he had similar provocative statements against the Muslim community. The High Court had previously granted him bail on the condition that he would refrain from making provocative statements. It was stated that he exhibited complete disregard for earlier orders of the High Court and that there was no guarantee that similar offences would not be repeated.On February 17, the High Court had expressed dismay over him repeatedly flouting the orders of the Magistrate Court as well as that of the High Court. It had orally observed, "When the High Court is making orders, you are violating it and coming again….What is the guarantee that you will not repeat it tomorrow. The only thing I can say that is you should surrender…"Case Title: PC George v State Of KeralaCitation: 2025 LiveLaw (Ker) 125Case No: Bail Appl. 1874/ 2025Click Here To Read/ Download Order

Kerala High Court Denies Anticipatory Bail To BJP Leader P C George In Hate Speech Case

Tellmy Jolly

Tags