Aligarh Man Faces Legal Action Over Unauthorized ‘Centre for Narendra Modi Studies’
In a surprising incident, an Aligarh-based entrepreneur has been booked by Uttar Pradesh Police for allegedly operating an unregistered “Centre for Narendra Modi Studies.” The case has ignited discussions on freedom of expression, political devotion, and legal compliance in India.
What Led to the Controversy?
Rakesh Sharma, a self-proclaimed supporter of PM Modi, set up the centre to “study and promote the Prime Minister’s policies and leadership.” The facility featured posters of Modi, a small library of government publications, and a digital archive of his speeches.
However, the Aligarh administration swiftly declared the centre illegal, citing a lack of official approvals. An FIR was filed under IPC sections related to fraud and public order violations.
Police Statement and Public Backlash
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kalanidhi Naithani clarified, “No private entity can use the PM’s name without authorization. This misleads the public and violates legal norms.”
Public reactions have been divided:
– Supporters argue the action is excessive, calling it a non-commercial tribute.
– Critics warn of potential misuse if such centres operate unchecked.
Political and Legal Implications
With the 2024 elections approaching, the incident has political undertones. Opposition leaders question why similar cases, like unofficial “Modi temples,” weren’t penalized earlier.
Legal experts stress that while admiration for leaders is permissible, institutional use of their name requires due process to avoid misrepresentation.
What’s Next for the Accused?
Sharma has been summoned for questioning. If found guilty, he could face fines or jail time. Meanwhile, social media debates rage under hashtags like #ModiStudyCentre and #FreeSpeechDebate.
Key Takeaways
This case highlights the delicate balance between political admiration and legal compliance. Whether Sharma’s centre was a genuine tribute or a legal misstep remains under scrutiny.
For the latest updates, follow NextMinuteNews.
