‘Criticism of government-CM is not a war against the country’, relief to Sharad faction leader from Pune court

A Pune court granted bail to the leader of Sharad Pawar group. The court said that criticizing the government or the Chief Minister cannot be considered as waging a war against the country. Additional Sessions Judge BD Kulkarni on Tuesday approved the bail plea of ​​Mahadev Balgude. Balgude is the Maharashtra state president of the social media wing of NCP (Sharad Pawar). Justice Kulkarni said that every citizen has the full right to comment, praise and criticize the work of the government.

‘These are common issues, no evidence on record’

The court said in its order that it is clear from the documents that the accused had raised questions on the investigation of some cases and the functioning of the government schemes. These topics are common issues discussed among the public. There is no evidence on record to prove that the accused declared war against the country, incited the people or caused any harm to the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.

‘Imposition of Section 152 of BNS is not appropriate’

Justice Kulkarni also said that it is not appropriate to impose Section 152 of BNS in this case, it is controversial. All other sections are bailable. The court also said that the investigation has been completed and the police has filed the charge sheet, hence there is no need to keep the accused in custody and interrogate him. The court granted him bail on a personal bond of Rs 25,000.

Bail with these conditions

• A bond of Rs 25,000 will have to be paid.
• One or two sureties will have to be presented.
• The evidence will not be tampered with.
• The witnesses will not be influenced.
• The investigating officer will have to give his address and mobile number.
• Will not have to leave the country without the permission of the court.

What was the matter?

Actually, Mahadev Balgude was accused of allegedly posting morphed pictures of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on social media. Made posts showing sympathy towards Naxalites. He was arrested on these charges in April this year. A case was registered against him under section 152 and other sections of the Indian Justice Code.