Allahabad HC Stays Arrest of Mohammed Zubair
On December 20, the Allahabad High Court stayed the arrest of Alt News co-founder Mohammed Zubair, who has been accused of creating social disharmony through his controversial social media posts. The case, heard by a Bench of Justices Siddhartha Varma and Nalin Kumar Srivastava, has been adjourned until January 6, 2025. Until then, Zubair has been barred from leaving the country and instructed to cooperate fully with the police investigation.
Justice Varma : We can hear it on Monday, on the opening (January 6). It requires more detailed arguments regarding Section 152 BNS, separatist activity, and feeling of separative activity. So whatever you have argued, we will pass orders protecting him till the 2nd January only.…
— Live Law (@LiveLawIndia) December 20, 2024
Serious Allegations Against Zubair
During the hearing, the Uttar Pradesh government highlighted the gravity of the allegations against Zubair. Additional Advocate General Manish Goyal pointed out that Zubair’s posts on X (formerly Twitter) had endangered India’s sovereignty and integrity. “The FIR shows what his conduct has done. It caused immense damage and posed a threat to the nation’s security. By sharing half-baked and misleading information, Zubair has incited enmity and unrest,” Goyal said.
AAG : He has not done fact checking. None of his tweets refer to what is written in the petition. He was cognizant of the fact…4th of October was a friday, there was a congregation.. it started on the evening of 3rd of october.
— Live Law (@LiveLawIndia) December 20, 2024
The police accused Zubair of using edited and out-of-context video clips of Yati Narsinghanand to inflame communal tensions. Zubair allegedly spread misinformation by ignoring critical facts, such as the court’s decision to grant bail to Narsinghanand, creating a distorted narrative to target Hindus and provoke unrest.
Zubair: A Pawn in a Larger Conspiracy?
The allegations against Mohammed Zubair are not new. Critics argue that Zubair’s activities fit into a larger agenda aimed at destabilizing India. By consistently targeting Hindu leaders and spreading falsehoods, Zubair’s actions undermine social harmony and create division. Observers claim that his role is part of a “deep state” strategy to weaken India’s unity and cultural foundations.
Unfortunately, Zubair is seen as just a pawn in this grand scheme. If one figure is removed, another will likely emerge to take their place. Such individuals often build their own networks of supporters and mobs, making it increasingly challenging for local police to act without significant political will. This deliberate creation of deterrence against law enforcement not only emboldens such actors but also pressures the judiciary through orchestrated campaigns.
International Pressure: The Deep State Playbook
Another concerning aspect is the international backing figures like Zubair often receive. NGOs and foreign governments, particularly the United States, may frame any action against Zubair as an attack on press freedom and democratic rights. This narrative has been used time and again to shield individuals accused of spreading divisive and misleading information. Critics warn that Zubair’s activities serve as a tool for international entities aiming to discredit India on the global stage.
A Pattern of Targeting Hindus and Hinduism
Zubair’s past actions reflect a consistent pattern of targeting Hindu leaders, traditions, and unity. By manipulating narratives and spreading misinformation, he allegedly seeks to sow discord and weaken societal cohesion. This systematic attempt to vilify Hinduism and its followers is not only dangerous but also a calculated strategy to erode India’s cultural and social fabric.
Collective Recognition and Hindu Unity
A collective effort is required to counter such divisive actors and their poisonous influence. Authorities must recognize the threat posed by individuals like Zubair, but the general public also plays a critical role. Hindu unity and awareness are essential to resisting such attempts to destabilize the nation. A unified response—both legal and social—is the only way to neutralize these threats and safeguard India’s sovereignty and integrity.
The Need for Vigilance
The Allahabad High Court’s decision to stay Zubair’s arrest is a temporary reprieve for him but a reminder of the challenges India faces. As long as divisive actors are allowed to operate unchecked, the risk to India’s unity and security remains. This is not just a legal battle but a cultural and social one, demanding vigilance and collective action from all segments of society.