The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday raised serious concerns over the investigation by Uttar Pradesh Police into an alleged hate crime against a Muslim cleric in Noida.
A Bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta questioned why key legal provisions related to hate crimes had still not been added to the FIR, despite earlier directions.
“They were clear observations… Why is your investigating officer playing hide and seek with the Court?” the Bench asked, expressing dissatisfaction with the probe.
Allegations of Religious Abuse and Assault
The case stems from a 2021 complaint filed by 62-year-old cleric Kazeem Ahmad Sherwani.
According to his plea, Sherwani was waiting for a bus in Noida when a group of men offered him a ride. During the journey, he alleged, he was abused with religious slurs, his beard was pulled, his skull cap removed, and he was later thrown out of the vehicle.
He approached the top court seeking a fair investigation, claiming that the police failed to treat the incident as a hate crime.
Missing Sections Raise Concern
Earlier, the State had acknowledged before the court that provisions such as Section 153B (prejudicial to national integration) and Section 295A (hurting religious sentiments) of the Indian Penal Code were applicable but were not included in the FIR.
The court had termed this a “grave error” and directed the State to correct it by conducting further investigation and filing a compliance report.
However, during the latest hearing, it emerged that Section 153B had still not been added.
Court Warns of Action Against Officer
Taking note of this, the Bench warned that it may summon the investigating officer. “Call this ACP… let him come and explain why he is doing all this,” the court said.
Appearing for the State, Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj assured the court that steps were being taken and requested more time.
While granting two additional weeks, the court made it clear that it was not satisfied with the progress. “We are not satisfied with the compliance affidavit… we grant further time to ensure full compliance,” the Bench said.
Next Hearing on May 19
The matter will now be heard on May 19, with the court expecting the State to fully comply with its earlier directions and ensure a proper investigation into the alleged hate crime.
