Overview
- He and his wife were stopped on arrival around 2 a.m. Saturday, questioned by the crime branch for hours, then let go after being served the notice to join the probe.
- An FIR was registered on December 18 at N M Joshi Marg police station on a complaint by BJP media cell functionary Nikhil Bhamre alleging objectionable and misleading posts about BJP leaders.
- The case cites Section 353(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita concerning statements that could create enmity or hatred, an offence carrying a maximum three-year sentence.
- Police said the flagged social media content was blocked after the FIR, and Patil, a British citizen based in London, said he disputes the charges and will consult his legal team.
- Opposition leaders condemned the detention and demanded explanations, while police stated the investigation is ongoing and Patil has been directed to appear when called.