Allahabad HC rejects anticipatory bail plea of singer Neha Rathore
What's the story
The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court has rejected Bhojpuri singer and YouTuber Neha Singh Rathore's anticipatory bail plea, The Times of India reported. The case pertains to her alleged indecent remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Pahalgam terror attack. The attack, which took place on April 22, 2025, killed 26 people, including a Nepali national.
Controversial statements
Rathore's remarks and subsequent complaints
Rathore made her controversial remarks on April 23, alleging that the Modi-led government was politicizing the Pahalgam terror attack on caste and religious lines. She also criticized the ruling party for its insensitivity in displaying a cartoon of a widow mourning from the attack. Multiple FIRs have been filed against her across Uttar Pradesh over these comments.
Defense statement
Rathore defends her remarks, claims misinterpretation
In an interview with ANI, Rathore defended her statements and said they were misinterpreted. She clarified that her comments were not a song but a direct question to the Prime Minister about tourist safety after the attack. "That was not a song; it was a statement regarding the Pahalgam incident in which many people lost their lives," she said.
Filed complaint
Poet files complaint against Rathore's remarks
The complaint against Rathore was filed by poet Abhay Pratap Singh at the Hazratganj police station. It alleged that her social media posts could incite caste-based hatred and anti-national sentiments. She has been charged under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act. The court rejected her anticipatory bail plea, stating that the allegations warranted an investigation.