The Delhi High Court has reserved its order on the anticipatory bail plea filed by YouTuber and commentator Ajeet Bharti in connection with a case alleging caste-based derogatory remarks and offensive statements made during online broadcasts.
The matter arises from an FIR registered at North Avenue Police Station, Delhi, invoking provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, the Information Technology Act, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The complaint alleges that Bharti made objectionable remarks concerning Nagina MP Chandrashekhar Azad and members of the Scheduled Caste community through content published on digital platforms.
During the hearing before Justice Saurabh Banerjee, the Court reportedly expressed concern regarding the language used in the impugned content, observing that certain expressions appeared offensive and that public commentators must exercise caution while making statements capable of affecting social harmony.
Counsel appearing for Bharti argued that the remarks were made in the context of expressing views on reservation-related issues and did not amount to intentional caste-based discrimination. The defence further submitted that the statements were a reaction to criticism directed at Bharti and his family.
Opposing the plea, the Delhi Police and the complainant contended that the statements went beyond permissible criticism and constituted deliberate caste-based remarks attracting penal provisions. They argued that the allegations disclose a prima facie case warranting investigation.
The hearing also witnessed discussions regarding transcripts and recordings of the allegedly offending content. After hearing submissions from all sides, the Court reserved its decision on the anticipatory bail application.
The order is expected to determine whether Bharti receives protection from arrest while the investigation continues. The case highlights the ongoing judicial scrutiny of online speech, hate speech allegations, and the legal responsibilities of digital content creators operating on public platforms.