The Kerala High Court has turned its gaze once again to former MLA and BJP leader PC George, issuing him notice on a State-initiated plea demanding the cancellation of the anticipatory bail he received in 2022 for alleged hate speech.
At the heart of the case lies a set of incendiary remarks George is accused of making against the Muslim community—remarks that led to charges under Sections 153A and 295A of the Indian Penal Code, provisions that deal with promoting communal enmity and religious insult.
Though granted bail by the High Court in May 2022, the relief came with strict boundaries: no more provocative speeches, no involvement in criminal activity, and no stirring of social discord. The State now claims George crossed every one of those lines.
According to the latest petition, George found himself back in legal crosshairs after another case was registered against him on January 10, 2025. This time, the charges fall under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita—Sections 196(1)(a) and 299, both targeting communal provocation—and the Kerala Police Act’s Section 120(o), which addresses unlawful assembly.
The State’s argument is simple: George’s conduct since receiving bail isn’t just problematic—it’s a direct violation of the court’s own conditions. It accuses him of “blatant breach” and calls for the Court to withdraw the protection granted to him two years ago.
Justice Gopinath P, hearing the matter, has sought George’s response. Whether the former legislator can justify his conduct—or lose his bail—is now up for judicial scrutiny.
