FIR Registered Against Journalist for Alleged Misconduct in Dehradun
In a significant development in Dehradun, an FIR has been officially registered against a journalist for allegedly using objectionable language against the chairperson of the Badri-Kedar Temple Committee (BKTC) in a social media post. Additionally, the journalist is accused of creating a disturbance during a recent press conference organized by the committee.
Complaint Details and Allegations
Based on a complaint filed by Pramod Nautiyal, the personal secretary to BKTC chairperson Hemant Dwivedi, at the Dalanwala police station in Dehradun, the FIR was registered against journalist Deep Maithani on Friday. Nautiyal alleged that Maithani made posts on Facebook on March 19 that contained objectionable language directed at Hemant Dwivedi. These posts reportedly questioned the committee's latest directive, which requires non-Hindus to submit an affidavit before visiting the revered Badrinath and Kedarnath shrines.
Nautiyal further stated in his complaint that during a press conference held on Tuesday, Maithani appeared in an inebriated condition and deliberately asked pointless questions, disrupting the event. Despite the chairperson's polite request to refrain from causing disturbances, Maithani's actions continued, which Nautiyal claimed hurt the sentiments of thousands of devotees associated with the temples.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation
Sub-inspector Rajneesh Saini, who is leading the investigation into the case, confirmed that the FIR has been registered under specific sections of the law. Section 353(3), which pertains to statements conducing to public mischief, and Section 352, related to intentional insult, have been invoked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Saini emphasized that a thorough probe is currently underway, and the accused journalist, Deep Maithani, will be summoned for questioning as part of the investigative process.
The case highlights ongoing tensions surrounding religious protocols and freedom of expression, with authorities taking strict action to address alleged misconduct. The Badri-Kedar Temple Committee, responsible for managing two of India's most sacred Hindu shrines, has been at the center of discussions regarding visitor regulations, making this incident particularly noteworthy in the local and religious context.
