Allahabad High Court Grants Bail to Man Accused Over ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ Post, Bars Him from Sharing Anti-National Content Online
By Rajesh Pandey
The Allahabad High Court has granted bail to a man arrested last year for allegedly posting “Pakistan Zindabad” on Instagram following the Pahalgam attack, while imposing strict conditions restricting his activity on social media.
In an order dated February 26, Justice Arun Singh Deshwal directed that the accused, Faizan, must refrain from uploading any content online that could harm the country’s image or disturb communal harmony.
One of the key conditions stipulated that the applicant “shall not post any objectionable material on social media that is detrimental to the reputation of the nation or any community.”
The court made it clear that violation of any bail condition would invite cancellation of the relief granted.
Charges Under BNS, Including Sedition Provision
Faizan was arrested by Etah police in May 2025 and charged under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including the provision corresponding to the erstwhile offence of sedition.
During the hearing, defence counsel argued that although the post may have been inappropriate, it did not attract Section 152 of the BNS. The lawyer contended that the accused had not made any remarks directly insulting or disrespecting India.
The defence further submitted that “merely expressing support for an adversarial country does not automatically fall within the ambit of Section 152.”
It was also pointed out that the accused had been in custody since May 3, 2025, and assured the court that he would not misuse his liberty if released.
State Opposes Bail
The prosecution opposed the plea, maintaining that the allegations were grave in nature and warranted continued detention.
However, while assessing the gravity of the charges, the available evidence, and the role attributed to the accused, the High Court also took note of overcrowding in prisons and the substantial backlog of criminal cases pending before trial courts.
Balancing these factors, the court allowed the bail application.
Bail Conditions
The court directed that Faizan be released upon furnishing a personal bond along with two sureties of equal amount, to the satisfaction of the trial court concerned.
The order underscores the judiciary’s effort to balance individual liberty with national interest, while making it clear that any misuse of the freedom granted under bail would lead to strict consequences.
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