The Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to consider listing a plea filed by Left leaders seeking action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over a viral video that shows him aiming a rifle and firing at members of a particular community.
A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N V Anjaria, took note of the submissions made by advocate Nizam Pasha, who appeared for leaders of the CPI and CPI(M). The bench said it would consider listing the matter for hearing.
“We are seeking urgent intervention of this court regarding disturbing speeches made by the sitting Chief Minister of Assam, including a recent video where he is seen shooting at members of a particular community. Complaints have been filed, but no FIR has been registered so far,” Pasha told the court.
Responding to the request, the Chief Justice remarked on the growing trend of political matters reaching the top court during election periods. “The problem is that as soon as elections come, part of the election is fought in the Supreme Court. That is the issue. We will examine it and give a date,” the CJI said.
The controversy centres around a video shared on February seven by the Assam BJP on its official social media account. The video showed Sarma taking aim with a rifle and firing at two individuals, one of whom appeared to be wearing a skull cap, while the other had a beard.
The video triggered sharp political reactions and widespread outrage, with critics accusing the ruling party of promoting violence and communal hatred. Following the backlash, the post was deleted.
The petitioners have argued that such visuals and statements by a constitutional authority could deepen social divisions and require immediate legal scrutiny. There was no official response from the Assam Chief Minister at the time of reporting.
