The decision leaves the accused in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand without legal protection or investigation support
NEW DELHI – The Delhi High Court on Wednesday dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking “free and fair” investigation into FIRs lodged in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand following processions carrying posters reading “I Love Muhammad.”
The decision leaves the accused Muslim individuals feeling abandoned, highlighting concerns over law enforcement’s impartiality in sensitive religious matters.
The PIL, filed by social activist Shujaat Ali, requested that the court direct either the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to oversee the inquiry, ensuring it remained impartial, transparent, and speedy. The accused fear harassment or bias due to local authorities handling the case.
A division bench headed by Chief Justice DK Upadhyay dismissed the PIL, stating that the Delhi High Court cannot issue directives to authorities in other states. The bench questioned how this petition could qualify as a public interest litigation, noting, “Why are the people named in the FIR not coming forward?”
Shujaat Ali’s lawyer argued that the accused were afraid of approaching the police, adding, “The police action is directly affecting the interests and safety of the Muslim community involved.” The bench, however, rejected these arguments, stating that an FIR filed against a few individuals cannot be construed as affecting the broader community.
The cases have arisen in Kanpur and Bahraich in Uttar Pradesh, and in Kashipur, Uttarakhand, following the procession which reportedly displayed posters stating “I Love Mohammad.” These FIRs, according to legal experts, reflect growing tensions around expressions of religious sentiment.
Speaking to Clarion India, Shujaat Ali expressed his disappointment, saying, “The Delhi High Court has left us without recourse. These young men and women are facing harassment simply for expressing their faith. We fear their rights are being ignored.”
Legal analyst Ayesha Siddiqui noted, “While the court’s hands may be tied legally, the moral responsibility to protect vulnerable communities cannot be overlooked. The accused Muslims now feel isolated, with little hope of justice in states where law enforcement may be biased.”
Despite the PIL’s dismissal, activists argue that the case underscores a worrying trend in which Muslim individuals face legal and social vulnerability over expressions of religious love. “We are witnessing a systematic neglect of minorities in certain regions,” said community leader Imran Hussain. “When even the highest courts refuse intervention, the message to these communities is clear—they have no protection.”
The Delhi High Court’s dismissal marks yet another challenge for minority communities seeking impartial treatment under the law, raising questions about inter-state accountability and the mechanisms available to ensure fair investigations.
The FIRs continue to remain active in Kanpur, Bahraich, and Kashipur. Legal representatives of the accused are now exploring options to approach the Supreme Court or seek intervention from national human rights bodies to secure justice.
This development has sparked widespread concern among civil society groups and human rights organisations, which warn that lack of legal safeguards could embolden local authorities to act against minorities with impunity.
