Overview
- The Lucknow bench, led by Justice Brij Raj Singh, found Rathore’s X posts were directed at the Prime Minister and used his name in a disrespectful manner.
- The court noted the posts were made at a crucial time following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 tourists were killed.
- The FIR alleges anti‑India statements and includes charges such as endangering the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.
- Rejecting a state objection on maintainability, the bench allowed a direct High Court approach under special circumstances, citing Rathore’s Bihar residence and arrest risk outside local jurisdiction.
- The prosecution argued she has avoided investigation and highlighted the posts’ circulation abroad, while the court left substantive challenges for the charge‑framing stage and dismissed the bail plea.