Journalist Prashant Koratkar Arrested After Bail Denied in Shivaji Remarks Case

March 20, 2025 – India – 

Nagpur-based journalist Prashant Koratkar was arrested in Telangana on March 24, 2025, following the rejection of his anticipatory bail by a Kolhapur sessions court. Koratkar faces charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his son, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, during a phone conversation with Kolhapur-based historian Indrajeet Sawant. The conversation, which reportedly included threats and offensive comments, was recorded and shared on social media, leading to public outrage and legal action.

The court denied Koratkar’s bail after it was revealed that he had deleted all data from his mobile phone before surrendering it to the police, an act the judge deemed as destruction of evidence. The court emphasized that such actions necessitated custodial interrogation to ensure a thorough investigation.

Following his arrest, Koratkar was brought to Kolhapur, where he was remanded to judicial custody. His subsequent bail application was also denied, with the court citing concerns that he might tamper with evidence or influence the investigation if released.

The case has sparked discussions about the balance between freedom of speech and the responsibility to avoid inciting communal tensions. While Koratkar claims the audio was doctored and his phone was compromised, the courts have so far found sufficient grounds to proceed with the case based on the available evidence.

As the legal proceedings continue, the case underscores the importance of responsible journalism and the potential consequences of inflammatory speech, especially when it pertains to revered historical figures.