Himachal HC Grants Bail, Rules Wishing Peace Not Sedition

The Himachal Pradesh High Court has granted bail to Abhishek Singh Bhardwaj, arrested seven months ago for sedition over Facebook posts, emphasizing that desiring peace between India and Pakistan or criticizing the government does not constitute sedition. The court stated that an intent to incite violence, disorder, or breach public peace is crucial for sedition charges. Bhardwaj was arrested during 'Operation Sindoor' based on allegations of posting images of banned weapons, a Pakistani flag, and alleged Khalistan slogans. However, the court found no weapons or objectionable material at his residence, only a mobile phone with chats criticizing 'Operation Sindoor', and clarified that merely posting slogans without violent intent is not an offense, citing Supreme Court precedents. Bail was granted on a bond of Rs 50,000 with specific conditions.