Guwahati, Feb 14: The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to hear on February 16 a batch of petitions seeking action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over a video allegedly showing him making remarks about firing at members of a particular community.
According to court sources, a Bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Joymalya Bagchi is likely to take up the matter. Among the pleas is a petition filed by CPI(M) leader Nizam Pasha seeking the registration of an FIR against the Chief Minister.
The apex court had earlier indicated that it would consider listing the plea. Referring to the forthcoming Assembly elections in Assam, the Bench observed that aspects of the electoral process are often subject to judicial scrutiny.
The controversy centres on a video purportedly recorded during an election rally, in which remarks about firing at two individuals were allegedly made. The clip was later shared on the Assam BJP’s official social media handle on February 7, drawing political criticism and public debate. Although the post was subsequently deleted, it had reportedly already been downloaded and circulated by several individuals.
Separate petitions have also been filed by the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and CPI leader Annie Raja, seeking the registration of FIRs and raising concerns over alleged hate speech aimed at communal polarisation. The petitioners have further sought the constitution of a Special Investigation Team, arguing that an independent probe would not be feasible through existing state or central agencies.
Earlier, another plea was moved by a group of 12 individuals seeking directions to prevent divisive remarks by persons holding constitutional positions.
The case is expected to attract considerable legal and political attention as the Supreme Court prepares to hear the matter.
