Karnataka HC grants bail to West Bengal woman in ‘Jai Bangla’ slogan case

BENGALURU: The high court has granted bail to a woman from West Bengal in connection with a criminal case registered by Hebbagodi police in Bengaluru for allegedly raising the ‘Jai Bangla' slogan.

The case was registered on Jan 11, against Sarbanu Khatun, a native of Nandigram in Purba Medinipur district, West Bengal, following a complaint filed after a video of the incident went viral.

She was booked under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for allegedly hurting the sentiments of Indians. Khatun was arrested on Jan 12, and remanded to judicial custody.

Sarbanu stated that she works as a domestic help, has two children, and had no intention of hurting the feelings or sentiments of anyone.

Justice S Rachaiah observed that the complaint indicated authorities were in the process of clearing sheds allegedly constructed unauthorisedly on govt land, and that the operation was being recorded by an individual.

At that time, a person allegedly instigated Sarbanu to raise the slogan ‘Jai Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. However, she first shouted ‘Jai Bangla' and subsequently said ‘Jai Bharat Mata Ki Jai' three times.

Taking into account the facts and circumstances of the case, as well as the fact that the petitioner has two minor children who depend on her care, the court held that it was appropriate to grant bail. The judge noted that suitable conditions could address the prosecution's concerns.

The court ordered her release on bail upon execution of a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh, with a direction to appear before the trial court on all hearing dates.