The Delhi Police on Friday reacted after the Supreme Court came down heavily on suspended BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma in the Prophet controversy. The Supreme Court Bench of Justices Surya Kant and JB Pardiwala had wondered why Sharma was not arrested even after FIRs were filed against her. This, according to the top court, showed the clout Sharma enjoyed.
Left red-faced, the Delhi Police wasted no time in clarifying its position by saying that they had issued a notice to Sharma about two weeks ago for allegedly spreading hate and hurting religious sentiments, and her statement was recorded.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations) KPS Malhotra said that a notice under section 41A CrPC (notice of appearance before police officer) was served on Sharma on 18 June. She, according to News18, joined the investigation and her statement was recorded the same day.
The Supreme Court on Friday said, “When an FIR is registered and you are not arrested, this shows your clout. She thinks she has back up power and makes irresponsible statements.”
When Sharma’s lawyer said that his client was cooperating with the investigation and not running away, the top court, according to Livelaw, remarked, “They must be redcarpeting you.”
“The way she has ignited emotions across the country… This lady is single-handedly responsible for what is happening in the country.”
The top court had also said that Sharma’s ‘loose tongue’ had set the entire country on fire.
Sharma’s objectionable remarks on Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had ignited international outrage with as many as 15 Islamic countries registering official protests against India. Faced with international outrage, the BJP had suspended Sharma from the primary membership of the party. Sharma had later issued an apology explaining the rationale behind her deeply offensive remarks about Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The Supreme Court said that Sharma was too late in issuing a public apology. “She was too late to withdraw…and too she withdraws conditionally, saying if sentiments hurt,” the top court added.
