Jhunjhunu: The detention of a 25-year-old Instagram content creator over a video critical of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has triggered a political storm in Rajasthan, with the Congress accusing the police of acting in a high-handed manner to silence dissent, according to a report by The Indian Express.
Naveen Choudhary, who runs the "Jhunjhunu Express" Instagram page, was taken into custody after posting a video that contrasted children engaged in sports activities with another group participating in an RSS-style gathering. The video suggested that one group was being encouraged towards achievement and nation-building, while the other was being exposed to divisive ideas.
According to Choudhary, cyber police began pressuring him to remove the video within hours of its publication. He alleged that a large police team arrived at his residence on Sunday morning, seized his phone and took him away despite the absence of any criminal case. He further claimed that he was subjected to physical and mental harassment during his detention, denied basic facilities for several hours and threatened with multiple cases.
Police rejected the allegations and said action was taken after complaints were received, accusing him of disturbing public peace and spreading discord through social media. Officials stated that he was detained under preventive provisions and produced before a magistrate. They also maintained that no assault took place and that no formal FIR was registered in the matter.
The episode drew sharp criticism from Congress leaders, including former chief minister Ashok Gehlot, who questioned whether criticism of the RSS had effectively become punishable. Other senior party leaders alleged that the detention reflected an attempt to suppress free expression and intimidate those who challenge dominant political narratives.
The controversy has reignited debate over freedom of expression, political criticism and the use of police powers, with opposition leaders portraying the action against Choudhary as part of a wider pattern of silencing dissenting voices.