‘Sir Tan Se Juda’ Slogan Incites Rebellion, Threatens Unity: Allahabad High Court in Strong Ruling

Prayagraj:
In a significant and stern observation, the Allahabad High Court has held that the slogan “Gustakh-e-Nabi ki ek hi saza, sir tan se juda” poses a serious threat to law and order as well as the unity and integrity of India, and has the potential to incite people towards rebellion.

The court made these remarks while rejecting the bail plea of an accused named Rehan, who was allegedly involved in violence that erupted on May 26, 2025, in Bihari Pur area, following a call given by Maulana Tauqeer Raza, president of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council (INC). During the incident, a mob of around 500 people allegedly raised the controversial slogan and engaged in violent acts.

Slogan Punishable, Against Islamic Principles Too

Justice Arun Kumar Singh Deshwal, while hearing the matter, observed that raising such a slogan is not only punishable under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)—which deals with offences threatening the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of the nation—but is also contrary to the basic principles of Islam.

The court noted that the case diary contains sufficient material to establish that the petitioner was part of an unlawful assembly which not only raised the objectionable slogan but also attacked police personnel, damaged public and private property, and created large-scale unrest. Since the accused was arrested from the spot, the court found no grounds for granting bail.

Distinction Between Religious Slogans

The High Court made an important distinction while discussing religious expressions. It stated that slogans are commonly used across religions to express reverence towards God—for instance, “Allahu Akbar” in Islam, “Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal” in Sikhism, and “Jai Shri Ram” or “Har Har Mahadev” in Hinduism.

However, the court categorically observed that the slogan “Gustakh-e-Nabi ki ek hi saza, sir tan se juda” finds no mention in the Quran or any other religious scripture. Despite this, it is being widely used by some individuals without understanding its implications, which makes it even more dangerous.

Linked to Bareilly Violence

The case is linked to the Bareilly violence, during which the mob allegedly snatched batons from police personnel, tore their uniforms, hurled petrol bombs, opened fire, and resorted to stone-pelting. Several police officers were injured in the violence, and seven people were arrested from the scene.

The High Court, in its order, reiterated that such acts and slogans directly challenge public order and national integrity and cannot be protected under any pretext.

Clear Message from the Judiciary

By refusing bail and making strong constitutional observations, the Allahabad High Court has sent a clear message that calls for violence, even when cloaked in religious rhetoric, will be dealt with strictly under the law, and that India’s unity and constitutional order cannot be compromised.