Delhi Police have arrested content creator Mohammed Amir, also known as Amir Shokeen, for allegedly making racially derogatory remarks against a man from Tripura in a video that circulated on social media.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Niharika Bhatt said Shokeen was arrested from Sadar Bazaar in north Delhi on Thursday evening. The 52-second video reportedly showed him holding the man’s hand while making racial jibes, with his companions laughing in the background.
Police said the video was filmed in Ahmedabad about a month ago. Although Shokeen claimed it was scripted, an officer said the investigation had found his claim to be false. Shokeen later posted an apology video on Instagram and reiterated that the clip was scripted.
Four Charges Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
Delhi Police booked Shokeen under Sections 192, 196, 352 and 353 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The provisions concern acts intended to provoke breaches of public peace, promoting enmity between groups, intentional insult and circulating false statements or rumours.
A senior police officer also said Shokeen had at least five previous criminal cases involving allegations including causing hurt and molestation, and was listed as a repeat offender at Sadar Bazaar police station.
Kiren Rijiju Calls for Strict Action
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju called for strict action against the alleged racial abuse. In a post on X, he said that people who tolerate such behaviour also contribute to the spread of hatred in society.
Tripura Director General of Police GS Rao said a police team from the state would travel to Delhi to assist with the investigation.
The case has drawn attention to concerns over racial discrimination against people from the Northeast and the need for accountability over abusive content circulated on social media. The allegations against Shokeen remain subject to the ongoing investigation and judicial proceedings.
