YouTuber and political commentator Ajeet Bharti has knocked on the doors of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, seeking protection from any coercive action by the Punjab Police. The controversy stems from his alleged remarks about Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai, which reportedly triggered a series of FIRs across Punjab.
The matter was listed before Justice Subhas Mehla, who heard the case briefly on Monday. After a short exchange between the bench and the petitioner’s counsel, the hearing was adjourned to November 3 for further consideration.
Bharti, known for his outspoken views on social and political issues, claimed that he learned about the alleged criminal cases only through news reports. He stated that he has not been formally informed of any FIR filed against him but fears possible misuse of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
In his petition, Bharti argued that his comments were made in his capacity as a journalist and were aimed at encouraging public debate. He clarified that his statements did not contain any hate speech or elements that could attract penal action.
"My views were expressed as a journalist’s opinion, not as an insult to anyone," the plea read.
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Referring to the ongoing political reactions, the petition also pointed out that AAP leaders, including Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, made public statements linking criticism of CJI Gavai to an "attack on Dalits."
Bharti’s counsel, Advocate Amit Siwach, urged the court to grant interim protection so that his client is not subjected to undue harassment before the facts are verified.
The bench did not pass any immediate relief but scheduled the matter for detailed hearing on November 3.
