The Madras High Court on Friday in the case Anitha R. Radhakrishnan v. The State refused anticipatory bail to DMK MLA Anitha R. Radhakrishnan. The issue is linked to remarks he allegedly made against Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay.

The court stressed that criticism of the chief minister’s office could not cross a line into objectionable speech.

According to the court record reported by LiveLaw, Justice G.K. Ilanthiraiyan dismissed the plea after hearing arguments from both sides, and the arrest followed soon after the order.

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Words wandered into legal peril

The case arose from a public event on June 20, when Radhakrishnan allegedly made comments about Vijay’s conduct in the Assembly and referred to his earlier life in the film industry before entering politics.

A complaint led to a case under Section 352 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, which concerns intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of peace, and Section 353(2), which covers statements conducive to public mischief.

The speech was made during a public meeting in Athoor, in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district.

Little patience for loose tongues

During the hearing, the court orally observed that the MLA, being a member of the legislative assembly, should have exercised restraint. The bench stated, “Being a member of the legislative assembly, what kind of speech have you spoken? Whoever it may be, you have to respect the CM,” while adding that Tamil Nadu had, since 1967, elected leaders from the cinema world to public office.

The court said the remarks were unwarranted in that context. The state argued that Radhakrishnan had shown no remorse, and allowing such conduct would invite “any Tom, Dick, or Harry” to make comments against the chief minister.

A legal blow followed by political ripples

After the court rejected the bail plea, Radhakrishnan was arrested on Friday and taken to the District Superintendent of Police’s office for questioning.

The arrest also triggered protests by DMK cadres, who reportedly staged a road blockade during the police action.

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FAQs

Q1: Why did the Madras High Court deny anticipatory bail to DMK MLA Anitha R. Radhakrishnan?
Ans: The Madras High Court denied anticipatory bail in connection with a case over Radhakrishnan’s alleged remarks against Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay.

Q2: What charges has Anitha R. Radhakrishnan been booked under?
Ans: He has been booked under Sections 352 and 353(2) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita over the alleged remarks.