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3w ago

Madras High Court Initiates Suo Motu Case Against Tamil Nadu Minister Over Hate Speech

The Court criticized police inaction and highlighted constitutional obligations to address derogatory remarks targeting religious groups and women.

Justice N Anand Venkatesh said K Ponmudy’s comment was “prima facie” akin to “hate speech”. (PTI)
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Overview

  • The Madras High Court registered a suo motu writ petition against Tamil Nadu Forest Minister K. Ponmudy on April 23, 2025, over a speech deemed hate speech targeting Saivites, Vaishnavites, and women.
  • The Court observed that Ponmudy's remarks were obscene, derogatory, and intended to wound religious sentiments, referencing a video of the speech circulated online.
  • Justice N. Anand Venkatesh criticized the Tamil Nadu police for failing to file an FIR despite receiving multiple complaints and a prior court directive to act by April 16.
  • The Court emphasized zero tolerance for hate speech under constitutional obligations, citing Article 144 and Supreme Court guidelines mandating prompt enforcement.
  • Ponmudy remains a minister under interim Supreme Court protection from a corruption conviction, with the Court noting his misuse of this liberty to deliver the contentious speech.