Delhi Police File FIR Over Santa Claus Skit Mocking Pollution Crisis

Delhi Police registered an FIR on Christmas Day. The case targets three Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders. Those named are Saurabh Bharadwaj, MLA Sanjeev Jha, and Adil Ahmed Khan.

The First Information Report centers on a political skit video. It accuses the leaders of hurting religious sentiments. According to ANI, the complaint was filed by advocate Khushboo George.

Video Shows Santa Claus Collapsing Amid High AQI Readings

The controversial video was posted on December 17 and 18. In it, Saurabh Bharadwaj announces a high Air Quality Index reading. He states the AQI at Connaught Place was 376.

Following his remark, a man dressed as Santa Claus faints. The character collapses dramatically onto the ground. Bharadwaj is then heard making a joking comment about the incident.

He said Santa fainted upon hearing the severe AQI number. The video was shared from the leaders’ official social media accounts. The complaint states it was used for political messaging.

Legal Charges Cite Outrage of Religious Feelings

The FIR includes serious charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Key sections invoked are 299 and 302. These pertain to deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings.

The complainant argues Santa Claus is a revered cultural icon. She states the figure is closely linked to Saint Nicholas and Christmas. Depicting him fainting as a prop is called derogatory.

The complaint highlights the timing during the Advent season. It claims the act ridicules a religious symbol before Christmas. Mock CPR performed on the character added to the alleged insult.

Authorities are now investigating the matter. The legal process will determine the outcome for the accused leaders. This case highlights the intersection of political satire and religious sensitivity.

The FIR over the Santa Claus skit marks a significant legal and political development. It underscores the tensions surrounding environmental messaging and cultural respect in Delhi. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What exactly did the AAP leaders’ video show?

The video showed Saurabh Bharadwaj announcing a poor AQI of 376. Immediately after, a person dressed as Santa Claus collapsed. Bharadwaj then joked that Santa fainted upon hearing the number.

What are the specific legal charges they face?

They face charges under BNS sections 299 and 302. These relate to deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings. A charge of joint liability was also applied.

How is Delhi’s air quality currently?

On Christmas Day, Delhi’s AQI was in the ‘poor’ category. The Central Pollution Control Board recorded a 24-hour average of 234. This was an improvement from the previous day.

Why is Santa Claus considered a religious figure in the complaint?

The complaint states Santa Claus is a revered icon linked to Saint Nicholas. He is a central cultural symbol of the Christmas season for Christians worldwide. Using him in this manner was deemed insulting.

Who filed the official police complaint?

The complaint was filed by advocate Khushboo George. She submitted it to the Delhi Police. The FIR was then registered based on her allegations.

Trusted Sources

Information for this report was gathered from reputable news agency ANI and official data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).