Supreme Court Justice Bhuyan Denounces Criminalisation of Dissent, Says Eating Chicken Biryani on Ganga Is Not a Crime

Justice Bhuyan, a sitting judge of the Supreme Court of India, recently voiced strong opposition to what he described as the criminalisation of dissent. In his remarks, he specifically referenced the act of eating chicken biryani on the Ganga, asserting that such an act is not a criminal offence.

The judge’s statement comes amid growing concerns about the use of criminal law to curb free expression. By highlighting a seemingly innocuous activity, Bhuyan aimed to underscore the broader principle that dissent should not be met with punitive measures.

Bhuyan’s comments were delivered in a public forum, where he urged the judiciary and lawmakers to safeguard the right to dissent. He emphasized that the law should not be weaponised against individuals expressing their views, even in unconventional settings.

The judge’s remarks have sparked discussion among legal scholars and civil society groups about the boundaries of lawful protest and the protection of civil liberties in India.