Mere expression of derogatory or objectionable words may not be a sufficient ground for invoking the provisions contained in section 124A (sedition) of the IPC, the sessions observed while granting bail to independent MP Navneet Rana and her MLA husband Ravi Rana. The court, however, added that “the applicants (the Ranas) have undoubtedly crossed the lines of freedom of speech and expression guaranteed under the Constitution.” While the Ranas were granted bail on Wednesday, a detailed order on the same was made public on Friday.

‘Must act responsibly’

Khar police arrested Ranas last month after they planned to chant Hanuman Chalisa outside CM Uddhav Thackeray’s house. The court granted bail to the Ranas but put certain conditions, such as stopping them from interacting with the media over the issue and warned them to not repeat this.