SC REFUSED TO QUASH SUMMONS ISSUED TO FACEBOOK INDIA'S MD AJIT MOHAN

The Top Court refused to quash the summons issued to Facebook India's MD Ajit Mohan by Delhi's Peace and Harmony Committee, seeking his presence for inquiry in regards to the Delhi riot 2020. The Apex Court held that Facebook is a platform where political differences are reflected and therefore cannot wash their hands off. 

However, the Bench of Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Dinesh Maheshwari and Hrishikesh Roy made it clear that Facebook cannot be compelled to answer on issues related to law and order, which falls under the Centre's domain. Facebook can also choose to remain silent on issues that fall within the prohibited jurisdiction of the Delhi assembly. The Bench also showed displeasure at the committee's action of conducting a press conference against Facebook. The top court upheld the Delhi Assembly's powers to constitute a committee to examine the riot but made it clear that it cannot act as a prosecuting agent.

Lastly, the bench called Mohan's plea "premature" and 'pre-emtive" as he was just asked to appear before the committee for inquiry.

Author: Papiha Ghoshal