Supreme Court Rebukes Sajjala Bhargava Reddy, Denies Anticipatory Bail in Social Media Case
Rejection of Anticipatory Bail
The Supreme Court of India dismissed the anticipatory bail petition of Sajjala Bhargava Reddy, former convenor of the YSR Congress Party’s social media wing, on May 23, 2025, in a case involving objectionable social media posts. The court, however, granted a two-week interim protection from arrest, directing Reddy to approach the trial court for further relief.
Court’s Strong Disapproval
During the hearing, a bench comprising Justices Pankaj Mittal and SVN Bhatti expressed severe disapproval of Reddy’s social media conduct. The court remarked, “Do you think we cannot understand the intent behind your posts? They are utterly intolerable,” highlighting the gravity of the allegations.
Allegations and Legal Context
Reddy faces charges under Section 111 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for allegedly orchestrating offensive and derogatory social media content targeting political opponents. The case has drawn attention due to its implications for responsible social media usage and political discourse.
Judicial Warning on Accountability
The bench emphasized that misuse of social media platforms would not be lightly condoned, stating, “No one can expect easy bail in such cases; otherwise, everyone will act with impunity.” This underscores the judiciary’s stance on enforcing accountability for online misconduct.
Broader Implications
The court’s remarks signal a broader warning against the misuse of digital platforms for defamatory or inflammatory purposes. The directive to seek relief from the trial court within two weeks places Reddy under continued legal scrutiny as the investigation progresses.
Political Reactions
The case has sparked polarized sentiments, with some YSRCP supporters alleging political targeting, while others, including TDP leaders, view the court’s stance as a step toward curbing online abuse. The ruling reinforces the need for ethical conduct in political social media campaigns.
Broader Context
- Allegations of orchestrating offensive content against political rivals
- Case linked to prior Andhra Pradesh High Court bail denials
- Highlights judiciary’s focus on responsible social media use