Bail Rejected Four Times

A court in Rewa has once again rejected the bail plea of YouTuber Manish Patel, marking the fourth consecutive legal setback for the social media creator. The latest rejection came late on Thursday, effectively blocking any possibility of relief for the next 20 days, as per legal procedures. Patel, who has over 4 million followers, was arrested earlier this week following a complaint over offensive social media posts targeting the Brahmin community.

Judicial Magistrate Panna Nagesh had turned down his bail application on 28 May. This was followed by a dismissal from the court of Fourth Additional Sessions Judge R.K. Sharma on 30 May. Earlier, both the district court and the high court had also refused to grant him any relief.

Social Media Tensions

The arrest has triggered sharp reactions across Rewa and the Vindhya region. While some social groups have welcomed the action, others have gathered in support of the YouTuber. Several organisations from Uttar Pradesh have announced on social media that they will march to Rewa to show solidarity with Patel.

Local authorities confirmed that certain WhatsApp groups and other platforms have been used to circulate messages that could worsen social divisions. Police said they are monitoring posts that include calls to boycott specific communities and their businesses.

Police Advisory Issued

In response, Rewa police issued an advisory urging citizens to stay away from misleading or provocative content. “Social media groups are being closely watched. Anyone found sharing material that disturbs public order will face legal action,” an officer said, quoting from the advisory.

The police have also asked users to delete and not forward any posts or messages that could spread hatred. “Sensational claims, unclear photos, or old videos are often used to provoke. Do not trust such information without verification,” the advisory added.

‘Rewa Chalo’ Call Grows

Support for Patel appears to be consolidating in certain quarters, with calls for a ‘Rewa Chalo’ campaign gaining traction online. Messages circulating on social media urge supporters to gather in large numbers in Rewa. Meanwhile, the police have said they are prepared to handle any law and order situation that may arise from such mobilisation.

Criminal Record

According to advocate Vivek Mishra, who is the complainant in the case, Patel has several criminal cases registered against him since 2016. These include incidents of mobile phone theft, assault, and other charges at various police stations, including University, Civil Lines, and Samaan. In one case, Mishra claimed, Patel remained a fugitive for a long time, leading to a permanent warrant.

Legal Provisions

Legal experts pointed out that the action falls under specific provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Advocate B.K. Mala explained that sections 196(1)(A) and 353(3) deal with acts that promote enmity or hatred between groups. Offences under these sections can lead to imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both.

The high court, while earlier rejecting Patel’s anticipatory bail, had noted that the content was created deliberately. As of late evening, Patel remained in judicial custody. Officials said the investigation is ongoing and more digital evidence is being examined.