Journalist Nikhil Wagle Booked By Pune Police Over Social Media Posts
Pune, 9th February 2024: An FIR has been registered against journalist Nikhil Wagle at Vishrambaug Police Station under Sections 153(A), 500, and 505 of the Indian Penal Code.
The complaint, filed by BJP leader Sunil Deodhar (58), alleges that Wagle circulated offensive content against senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media, specifically on Twitter (X).
According to the FIR complaint, Wagle intentionally insulted Advani, Modi, and President Droupadi Murmu through statements aimed at creating caste-based divisions.
The complaint alleges that Wagle made derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Modi and Advani on Twitter immediately after the announcement of the Bharat Ratna award to Advani. Deodhar claims that Wagle’s tweets were intended to tarnish Modi’s image and sow religious and communal discord in the country, especially with an eye on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The complaint further asserts that Wagle’s actions aim to disturb social harmony and law and order.
Highlighting that the President of the country hails from a tribal community, Deodhar argues that Wagle deliberately insulted both the President and the Bharat Ratna award. He contends that Wagle’s statements are an attempt to undermine the Scheduled Castes and Tribes by fueling communal sentiments.
The legal action against Wagle raises questions about the delicate balance between freedom of expression and potential repercussions for statements made on social media, particularly when they involve prominent political figures.
