**Cartoonist Hemant Malviya Faces Legal Action for Online Content**
Madhya Pradesh Police have initiated legal proceedings against Hemant Malviya, a cartoonist based in Indore, for allegedly posting objectionable content online regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and Lord Shiva. The complaint was filed by RSS member and lawyer Vinay Joshi, who accused Malviya of intentionally sharing material deemed “offensive,” “indecent,” and “obscene,” which purportedly offends Hindu religious sentiments.
Malviya, who describes himself as an artist, cartoonist, and wedding decorator on social media, is known for using satire to comment on various political and social issues. His Facebook account features a range of cartoons, videos, and images that often critique the establishment.
In one of his recent posts, a cartoon depicted an interaction between an RSS worker and PM Modi, where the worker humorously requests the Prime Minister to release water, implying that Pakistanis have not bathed. Another cartoon addressed the friendship between US President Donald Trump and PM Modi, with Trump humorously claiming he would prevent Indian mangoes from selling in the US.
The Lasudiya police station’s in-charge, Tareesh Soni, confirmed that Malviya has been charged under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including 196 (acts detrimental to communal harmony), 299 (deliberate act intended to hurt religious sentiments), and 352 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace), as well as section 67A of the IT Act, which deals with the transmission of sexually explicit material online. As the investigation continues, Malviya has not yet been taken into custody.
In response to the FIR, Malviya expressed his thoughts on Facebook, stating that the situation is no longer a joke. He referenced a humorous post he shared about a different FIR involving the BJP IT Cell head, which was mistakenly attributed to him. He acknowledged the seriousness of the FIR against him for allegedly posting objectionable cartoons and comments about RSS volunteers, PM Modi, and Lord Shiva.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Malviya’s Facebook profile includes a disclaimer stating that all characters in his cartoons are fictional, and any resemblance to real individuals is coincidental. He currently has approximately 40,000 followers on the platform.
**FAQ**
**Q: What are the charges against Hemant Malviya?**
A: Hemant Malviya faces charges for allegedly posting content that offends religious sentiments and communal harmony, as per various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the IT Act.