FIR Filed Against Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap in Varanasi Over Alleged Remarks Against Brahmin Community
Renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap found himself embroiled in controversy on Monday after a case was registered against him in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, over an allegedly offensive comment that has been perceived as derogatory towards the Brahmin community.
The First Information Report (FIR) was filed at the Bhelupur police station, confirmed Station House Officer (SHO) Gopalji Kushwaha.
Authorities have initiated a formal investigation into the matter, and further action will be taken based on the findings.
According to details shared by the police, the complaint was lodged by a resident of Varanasi, Govind Chaturvedi, who accused Anurag Kashyap of making a “divisive and hurtful” statement through his verified social media platforms, including Instagram.
The complainant stated that Kashyap’s alleged remarks caused deep offense to members of the Brahmin community and have triggered anger and widespread discontent within the group.
Chaturvedi further claimed that the comments were not only insensitive but seemed to be deliberately crafted to target and insult the followers of Sanatan Dharma, the ancient and traditional religious and cultural heritage practiced by many Hindus, particularly those within the Brahminical tradition.
He alleged that Kashyap’s post went beyond casual commentary and amounted to a calculated attempt to provoke religious sentiments and create social discord.
In response to the complaint, legal action was initiated under multiple provisions of the law. Anurag Kashyap has been booked under Section 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertains to deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage the religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs.
This section addresses offenses related to communal and religious disharmony and is treated seriously under Indian criminal law.
Additionally, the filmmaker has also been charged under Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, which deals with the publishing or transmission of obscene material in electronic form.
Although the context of obscenity is still being examined, this section has often been invoked in cases involving controversial or inflammatory social media content.
The incident has quickly gained traction in both legal and public discourse, particularly on social media platforms, where reactions have been polarized.
While supporters of Anurag Kashyap argue that creative freedom and the right to critique religious and social structures must be protected in a democracy, others believe that the filmmaker crossed a line and disrespected a revered community and its beliefs.
As the investigation continues, all eyes are now on the Varanasi police and the broader legal process, which will determine whether Kashyap’s remarks constituted a criminal offense under the statutes invoked.
So far, there has been no official statement from Anurag Kashyap or his legal team regarding the FIR. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days as the matter unfolds both in public debate and in the courts.
