A Delhi court has dismissed a revision petition seeking registration of an FIR against the Delhi Art Gallery (DAG) for displaying two allegedly objectionable paintings by Padma awardee M.F. Hussain.
“Having perused the record, including the impugned order, ATRs, seized evidence, and submissions, this court finds no merit in the revision petition. The primary ground for challenge – that police investigation is essential – does not withstand scrutiny. The discretion under Section 175(3) BNSS must be exercised judiciously, with application of mind, and not mechanically,” the court observed.
The court also noted that the allegations, while sensitive, concerned artworks displayed in a private gallery, not acts of public incitement or violence. “No communal unrest is reported, and the seized evidence suffices for adjudication. The petitioner faces no prejudice, as she can lead evidence in the complaint case,” it said.