Himachal HC: Desire for Peace Not Sedition, Grants Bail in Facebook Post Case

The Himachal Pradesh High Court granted bail to Abhishek Singh Bhardwaj, arrested seven months ago for sedition over Facebook posts, stating that expressing a desire for peace between India and Pakistan or criticising the government does not constitute sedition. The court emphasized that sedition requires an intent to incite violence, disorder, or disturb public peace. Bhardwaj was arrested in May 2025 during 'Operation Sindoor' for allegedly posting images of banned weapons, Pakistan's flag, and pro-Khalistan slogans. However, the court noted that no weapons were found during searches, only a mobile phone. It also clarified that pro-Khalistan slogans were not found and merely posting slogans without violent intent is not an offense. The court granted bail on a bond of Rs 50,000 with various conditions.