Hate speech: Police claims they have proof against Togadia, will he be arrested?

Mumbai: Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Praveen Togadia reportedly made a hate speech in Bhokar early this month. After a public outcry, the Maharashtra Police has booked the leader. CNN-IBN has learnt that the police has submitted its report to the state government and is awaiting a sanction to prosecute him.

Sources said that the SP of Nanded region submitted the report last week. The police said that they have proof that Togadia made provocative statements but that it needs government sanction to proceed.

Togadia has been booked for promoting enmity between religions (Section 153A) and intent to outrage religious feelings (Section 295A, Section 298).

The police said that they have proof that Praveen Togadia made provocative statements but that it needs government sanction to proceed.

Now, it appears the state government is dragging its feet over sanctioning prosecution. The state Home Ministry though denies any sanction is required. State Home Minister RR Patil said, "Whatever is required is being done. The investigation is on. There is no need of any sanction from the Home department or any senior leader."

Top Maharashtra Police officials said that a sanction is required from the state government to proceed in this case. This is because Section 153 A of IPC has been invoked in this case. The VHP leader faces charges which are non-bailable and attract a sentence of three years. The big question remains will Togadia get arrested or will the case die a slow death.

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