Journalist Abhisar Sharma Denounces FIR as Baseless Amidst Political Tensions

Journalist Abhisar Sharma has condemned the FIR filed against him as baseless, following accusations of communal politics against Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The case has drawn significant backlash from press organizations and political figures, who argue it represents an attack on press freedom. Sharma plans to respond legally, asserting that his comments were based on factual evidence. The situation highlights ongoing tensions regarding freedom of expression in India, particularly in Assam, where several journalists have faced similar charges. As political reactions unfold, the implications for press freedom and governmental accountability remain a focal point of discussion.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 22, 2025, 10:41 IST

Abhisar Sharma Responds to FIR

On Thursday, journalist and YouTuber Abhisar Sharma labeled the first information report (FIR) filed against him as “completely baseless.” This FIR was initiated after he accused Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of engaging in communal politics.

Sharma stated on social media, “I will respond to this legally. My comments were based on factual evidence regarding Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s communal politics, drawn from his own statements.”

Details of the FIR

Earlier that day, Sharma was charged under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which address actions that threaten national unity and sovereignty, incite enmity among groups, and make statements detrimental to national integration.

The complaint was lodged by Alok Baruah, a member of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, the student wing associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, which is linked to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.

Baruah accused Sharma of mocking both the Union and Assam governments, claiming his actions jeopardized national sovereignty. He further alleged that Sharma disrespected the principle of Ram Rajya and accused the Assam Chief Minister of communal politics.

A senior officer from the Guwahati Police indicated that the FIR was filed because Sharma was allegedly speaking against the nation and its sovereignty.

Condemnation from Press Organizations

Press body condemns case

The Digipub News India Foundation, representing independent digital news organizations and journalists, condemned the FIR against Sharma, asserting that the police are increasingly being used to suppress dissent.

“Criminalizing the work of a respected journalist like Abhisar Sharma is an assault on press freedom,” the organization stated. They called for the immediate dismissal of the case and an end to the intimidation of journalists.

“We urge the government and judiciary to prevent the misuse of oppressive laws such as sedition,” Digipub emphasized. “Press freedom is essential for democracy, and we are dedicated to defending it at all costs.”

Political Reactions

Assam CM a ‘coward’: Congress

Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate criticized the Assam Chief Minister, labeling him a “coward” following the FIR against Sharma.

She remarked that the FIRs against three senior journalists, including Sharma, Siddharth Varadarajan, and Karan Thapar, are merely attempts to intimidate and silence them.

Support for Sharma

Rashtriya Janata Dal spokesperson Priyanka Bharti expressed solidarity with Sharma, questioning why the government felt threatened by the truth and asserting that sedition charges are being misused in the country.

Context of the FIR

The FIR against Sharma follows a recent incident where the Crime Branch in Guwahati summoned Siddharth Varadarajan, the founding editor of The Wire, regarding an article on Operation Sindoor. This occurred despite the Supreme Court granting Varadarajan and his colleagues protection from arrest in another FIR filed by the Assam Police.

Additionally, The Wire received summons for journalist Karan Thapar, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding press freedom in the region.