Split Verdict on Plea Against YouTuber Savukku Shankar’s Arrest Under Goondas Act

The Madras High Court delivered a split verdict on Thursday concerning a plea filed by the mother of YouTuber Savukku Shankar, challenging his arrest under the stringent Goondas Act by Tamil Nadu police. The case has now been referred to a third judge for a final decision.

Key Details

• Verdict Split: Justice G.R. Swaminathan and Justice P.B. Balaji delivered opposing views on the plea.
  • Justice G.R. Swaminathan’s Opinion: In favor of quashing the detention order due to procedural lapses.
  • Justice P.B. Balaji’s Opinion: Differed, implying that the detention might be justified.
• Next Steps: The matter will be heard by a third judge, to be nominated by the acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court.

Background of the Case

• Arrest and Charges: Savukku Shankar was arrested by the Tamil Nadu Police for making derogatory and objectionable remarks about senior police officers and women police personnel. His comments included terms like “scoundrels” and “womanisers.”
• Invoking the Goondas Act: Post-arrest, the Goondas Act was invoked, a stringent law that allows detention without trial for up to one year to prevent harmful activities.

Recent Developments

• Transfer of Detention: Both justices agreed to transfer Shankar from Coimbatore prison to Chennai’s Puzhal prison for the duration of the legal proceedings.
• Co-accused: Felix Gerald, another YouTuber who interviewed Shankar, was also arrested on May 10 in connection with the case.

Legal Implications and Public Interest

• Procedural Lapse: Justice Swaminathan’s inclination to quash the detention based on procedural lapses highlights potential deficiencies in the arrest and detention process.
• Judicial Process: The split verdict necessitates the involvement of a third judge, demonstrating the judiciary’s checks and balances.
• Freedom of Speech vs. Defamation: The case underscores the tension between freedom of speech and the repercussions of defamatory statements, especially against public officials.

Conclusion

The split verdict on YouTuber Savukku Shankar’s detention under the Goondas Act marks a significant moment in the ongoing discourse on freedom of expression and the legal limits of speech in India. The final decision by the third judge will be crucial in determining the outcome of this high-profile case. For comprehensive market coverage, business news, and real-time updates on law and politics, visit Kanishk Social Media.

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