A Delhi court has directed the seizure of two controversial paintings by renowned artist MF Husain, depicting Hindu deities Hanuman and Ganesh.
The paintings were displayed at the Delhi Art Gallery (DAG) in Connaught Place as part of a private exhibition showcasing Husain’s work.
The order, issued by Judicial Magistrate First Class Sahil Monga at the Patiala House Courts, followed a complaint by Advocate Amita Sachdev, who alleged that the artworks offended religious sentiments.
Sachdev claimed she visited the gallery on December 4, took photographs of the paintings, and lodged an FIR on December 9. By her next visit on December 10, the paintings were no longer on display.
The court cited a police inquiry report confirming the gallery’s cooperation in the investigation, including the submission of CCTV footage and gallery records identifying the paintings.
The DAG clarified it was not involved in the legal proceedings but was consulting experts and assisting authorities.
According to the gallery, the exhibition, which drew around 5,000 visitors, was well-received by the public, with Sachdev being the only individual to raise objections.
The gallery criticized her for sharing the images on social media and news platforms, suggesting that this was intended to generate controversy.
MF Husain, widely regarded as one of India’s most celebrated modern artists, passed away in 2011.
While his work has earned international acclaim, it has also sparked frequent controversy due to his depictions of religious figures.
This incident reignites debates in India over the boundaries of artistic expression, freedom of speech, and religious sensitivities.
Artists, legal experts, and the public are closely watching the case, as it raises critical questions about the intersection of art, religion, and the law.