Kottayam, Kerala – February 28, 2025: BJP leader and former MLA, PC George, was granted bail by the Erattupetta Magistrate Court in Kottayam district on Friday, following his arrest earlier this week in a hate speech case.
George had voluntarily surrendered before the magistrate court on Monday after the Kerala High Court dismissed his anticipatory bail plea, highlighting concerns that granting such bail might send a "wrong message to society." Subsequently, the court had remanded him to police custody.
The case against George originated from his alleged hate speech against a minority community during a televised debate. A complaint was filed by Muhamed Shihab, a Muslim Youth League leader, accusing George of making remarks intended to provoke religious animosity.
Authorities registered charges under Sections 196(1)(a) (promoting enmity between groups on religious grounds) and 299 (deliberate acts intended to outrage religious sentiments) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, alongside Section 120(o) (causing nuisance and disrupting public order) of the Kerala Police Act.
Earlier, George had sought anticipatory bail at the Kottayam District Sessions Court, which was also rejected, prompting him to approach the Kerala High Court unsuccessfully.
The court's decision on Friday allows George temporary relief as the investigation continues.
Last updated by a enewsx: