Smiling in 'Pranam Mudra' Not Insult to National Anthem Patna HC Quashes Complaint Against CM Nitish Kumar

The Patna High Court quashed a complaint against Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, which alleged he insulted the National Anthem by standing in 'Pranam Mudra' with a smiling face during the Sepak Takraw World Cup event.

The Court found no violation of Section 3 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, as his gesture reflected respect, not insult.

The complaint, deemed politically motivated, was also dismissed due to procedural lapses under Sections 218 and 223 of the BNSS.

The Magistrate’s order issuing notice without examining the complainant on oath was declared misconceived. The entire complaint was thus set aside. (Nitish Kumar v State of Bihar and Anr)