Social Media ‘Pravachan’ not allowed | HC imposes Social Media Gag in Kotdwar case, says ‘Don’t sensationalise the matter’

In a strong intervention aimed at protecting the integrity of an ongoing criminal probe, the Uttarakhand High Court restrained ‘Mohammad’ Deepak Kumar and others from posting or commenting on social media about the Kotdwar incident, while refusing to quash the FIR against him and directing the police to continue the investigation in accordance with law.

The dispute traces back to a January 26 altercation in Kotdwar that went viral online after a confrontation involving local groups over a shop name. Multiple FIRs followed, including one against Deepak for alleged rioting and related offences. Challenging the FIR, Deepak approached the High Court claiming he had only attempted to defuse tensions and was being targeted unfairly.

He also alleged police inaction against others and sought protection. The State, however, countered that he had been actively posting videos, was not cooperating with the investigation, and had suppressed key facts, including prior FIRs already registered on his complaints.

The Court took a firm view against public commentary during an active investigation, warning that such conduct could derail the process. It observed that “Don’t sensationalise the entire matter… now police ko apna kaam karne do,” and stressed that individuals under probe cannot use social media to influence narratives. Highlighting the burden on investigating agencies, the Court refused to quash the FIR and declined protection, noting that adequate security had already been provided.

Consequently, the petition was disposed of with directions to the police to proceed strictly as per the Arnesh Kumar guidelines, while restraining the petitioner from making any public statements and directing full cooperation with the investigation.