Court Dismisses Petition to Probe Controversial Art Exhibit in Delhi

On August 19, 2025, a Delhi court dismissed a revision petition seeking the registration of an FIR against the Delhi Art Gallery (DAG) for displaying two allegedly objectionable paintings by renowned artist M.F. Hussain, a Padma awardee.

The Additional Sessions Judge at the Patiala House Courts upheld a January 2025 ruling by a Judicial Magistrate, who had refused to direct the police to investigate the matter. The magistrate had noted that the complainant, advocate Amita Sachdeva, already possessed all the evidence required to substantiate her allegations, making further investigation unnecessary.

The court observed that the magistrate's order reflected a reasoned application of mind, consistent with statutory provisions and judicial precedents. It stated that no police investigation was required at this stage, as the evidence was accessible, and the law provided an adequate mechanism for any future inquiry.

The court also noted that the allegations, while sensitive, concerned artworks displayed in a private gallery, not acts of public incitement or violence. It said no communal unrest was reported, and the seized evidence was sufficient for adjudication.

DAG authorities have denied any wrongdoing, asserting their commitment to artistic freedom and alleging that the complainant was "principally driven by a religious agenda." According to her profile, the advocate has pledged to pursue legal action against anyone who "insults Sanatan Dharma."