A case has been registered against popular folk singer and poet Neha Singh Rathore at Hazratganj police station in Lucknow over allegedly provocative social media posts related to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The posts, made on her official X (formerly Twitter) handle, have been accused of inciting communal tensions and threatening national integrity.
The complaint, filed by Abhay Pratap Singh, accuses Rathore of posting content that could “adversely affect national integrity” and create religious discord in the wake of the brutal killing of 26 people, mostly tourists, in Pahalgam last week. The attackers reportedly targeted victims based on their religious identity, sparking nationwide outrage and grief.
“In this highly sensitive atmosphere, Rathore made objectionable posts that appear to promote disharmony between religious communities,” the complainant stated. He further alleged that her content could provoke sectarian animosity and disrupt public tranquillity.
Following the complaint, police registered a case under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), India’s new criminal code, which replaced the Indian Penal Code earlier this year. Though the BNS does not use the term “sedition” as in the now-defunct IPC Section 124A, it includes analogous provisions under Section 152, which criminalizes actions that endanger the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
In addition, Rathore has been charged under provisions related to promoting enmity between different groups, disturbing public order, and also under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act.
Police said the matter is under investigation and appropriate action will be taken based on further inquiry.
Neha Singh Rathore is widely known for her sharp political commentary and socially charged folk songs, often shared through social media platforms. Her content has sparked both acclaim and controversy in the past, and she has previously faced legal scrutiny over her posts and performances.
As the nation mourns the victims of the Pahalgam attack, authorities are taking a strong stance against any activity perceived to undermine social harmony or national unity.
Sources By Agencies
