New Delhi: A Delhi court Friday dismissed a complaint seeking action against chief minister Rekha Gupta over her alleged remark comparing govt officials to Lord Hanuman during an official programme.
Panwar clarified that an FIR under Section 175(3) of BNSS is warranted primarily when police assistance or custodial interrogation is required to unearth evidence beyond the complainant’s reach. The court noted that the complainant had already placed on record an official video transcript, a certificate under Section 63(4)(C) of Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023, and details of the speaker’s identity, venue and date. The court also found no prima facie basis for the allegations against the CM, but granted the petitioner liberty to proceed with the private complaint under Section 223 of BNSS and provide evidence before the magistrate.
“The essential material is already on record and the evidence can be led directly before the court by summoning witnesses,” the magistrate observed. It described Gupta’s address as “encouraging and appreciative,” noting that she had praised the officials’ work, commitment and dedication by positively comparing them with Lord Hanuman. The complaint, filed by one Ram Niwas Sharma under BNSS, alleged that the CM’s remarks warranted legal action. In an action taken report (ATR) filed by Kashmere Gate police station, police had also concluded that no cognisable offence was made out.