Hate speech: SC calls report on Pastor Fernando

The Supreme Court yesterday (13) directed the Attorney General to submit the status of the investigations in respect of Pastor Jerome Fernando within two weeks. Pastor Fernando is under investigation for allegedly causing disharmony among religions.

Protests erupted against the self-styled ‘prophet’ over a sermon posted on social media. Fernando fled the country 48 hours before the Fort Magistrate court on May 16, 2023 banned him from leaving the country. Fernando returned to the country on Nov 29, 2023.

The Supreme Court issued directions to the AG when the Fundamental Rights petition filed by a group of religious leaders seeking an order directing the authorities to immediately act against Pastor Jerome Fernando, was called before the highest court.

The petitioners Ven. Elle Gunawansa Thera, Ven. Bengamuwe Nalaka Thera, Ven. Angulugalle Sri Ginanada Thera, Rev. Father Nishan Cooray, Dr. Sivasui Ramachandra Kurukkal Babu Sharma and Al-Haj-As-Seyed Hassan Moulana AlQuadri filed this petition naming Pastor Jerome Fernando, the IGP and several others as respondents.