The District and Sessions Court in Gangtok has rejected the bail plea of Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) spokesperson Arun Limboo, citing the “grave and provocative” nature of the charges against him. Limboo, who was arrested on September 15, has been accused of circulating videos on social media that allegedly contained defamatory remarks and altered visuals of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and his wife, Krishna Kumari Rai.
The complaint was filed by Sonam Choden Bhutia, Officer on Special Duty (Legal) to the Chief Minister. According to the court order, the material circulated by Limboo went beyond the realm of political criticism, carrying content that was “capable of disturbing public peace.” It also highlighted references to “atom bomb” and “hydrogen bomb” as particularly inflammatory.
The judge observed that granting bail at this stage could hamper the ongoing investigation, especially since provisions under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023—akin to sedition—have been invoked. The court also dismissed Limboo’s claim of being a farmer, noting his political role and references to past criminal cases.