A Zero FIR has been registered by Noida Police against a woman from Noida following allegations that she made objectionable remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi.
According to police, the case was registered after a complaint was received. Authorities are examining viral videos, social media posts, and other digital evidence related to the incident. Police said further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation and the available evidence.
The complaint was filed at the Expressway Police Station in Noida by Ghaziabad-based advocate Smriti Singh Chandel. The complaint alleges that objectionable language was used against the Prime Minister from a public platform during the protest, affecting the dignity of the country's highest constitutional office. Since the alleged incident occurred in Delhi, the Zero FIR may be transferred to the police station having territorial jurisdiction for further investigation.
Police said they are verifying viral videos, social media clips, and other electronic material connected to the incident. Investigators are examining the original source of the videos, the context in which the recorded events occurred, and whether any of the viral content has been altered. Officials said all electronic evidence will be verified before any conclusions are reached.
Following the emergence of the case, the matter was widely discussed on social media. Anoop Khetan, State President of Hindu Suraksha Seva Sangh, shared a video on his social media account and claimed that the woman seen in the viral footage is a resident of Noida. He called on police to take prompt action and complete the legal process. Police, however, said they have not officially verified these claims and that any further action will be based on established facts after the investigation is completed.
In a statement posted on social media, complainant advocate Smriti Singh Chandel said maintaining decorum in public discourse is the responsibility of every citizen. She stated that while every individual has the right to express dissent and participate in protests in a democracy, the use of objectionable language against any individual or constitutional office is not consistent with social and democratic values. She also said that content circulated on social media can influence society, particularly children and young people, making restraint in public expression important.
Noida Police have registered the case under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including provisions relating to intentional insult, the alleged dissemination of content capable of disturbing public peace, and defamation. According to police officials, the available evidence will be assessed during the investigation, and concerned individuals may be questioned if required.
A Zero FIR allows a complaint to be registered at any police station irrespective of where the alleged incident occurred. After registration, the FIR is transferred to the police station having jurisdiction over the place of occurrence for further investigation.
Delhi Police are also conducting a separate investigation into the alleged objectionable online content linked to the case. Officials said information has been sought from social media platforms, and the authenticity of certain posts and videos is being examined. Investigators are also assessing whether any content capable of inciting unrest or affecting law and order was circulated. The investigation remains ongoing, and any determination of legal liability will be subject to the judicial process.
The case is linked to a protest held at Jantar Mantar where various student and social groups were demonstrating over education-related issues. Several videos from the protest later circulated on social media, with claims that objectionable remarks could be heard in some of the footage. Complaints were subsequently filed on the basis of the viral material, and the relevant agencies are investigating the sequence of events.
The Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression. However, that right is subject to legal restrictions relating to public order, defamation, decency, and matters concerning the dignity of constitutional institutions. According to experts, while protests are an important part of a democratic system, allegations involving abusive language or violations of law should be investigated impartially and on the basis of evidence.
Police have stated that the matter remains under investigation. Further legal action will depend on the examination of viral videos, witness statements, and digital evidence. Any final determination regarding the guilt or innocence of any accused person will be made through the judicial process.
