HC restrains Udhayanidhi from linking EPS to Kodanad case

HC restrains Udhayanidhi from linking EPS to Kodanad case In a recent development, the Madras High Court has granted an interim injunction, restraining Tamil Nadu Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin from making defamatory allegations against AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) and connecting him with the Kodanad heist-cum-murder and corruption cases. The court’s decision comes in response to a petition seeking damages for reputation tarnishment. The court, presided over by Justice RN Manjula, observed that the materials presented by the plaintiff convincingly demonstrated that Udhayanidhi Stalin’s comments could seriously damage the reputation of EPS. As a result, the court issued notice to Udhayanidhi Stalin, returnable in two weeks. Palaniswami, who sought a permanent injunction against Udhayanidhi Stalin’s comments and compensation of Rs. 1.10 crore for damages, argued through senior counsel Vijay Narayan that Udhayanidhi’s derogatory remarks were made on September 7 via his social media handle, mentioning EPS in a disparaging manner. Udhayanidhi insinuated that Palaniswami was attempting to evade involvement in the Kodanad heist-cum-robbery and corruption cases. It’s important to note that EPS had not been questioned in connection with the Kodanad case, nor were any corruption charges filed against him. Nevertheless, Udhayanidhi’s direct references to EPS, especially in the lead-up to parliamentary elections, raised concerns that such derogatory remarks could significantly tarnish his image and reputation. As a result of the compelling arguments presented by EPS’s legal team, the court granted an interim injunction restraining Udhayanidhi Stalin from making any comments against EPS in connection with the murder and corruption cases.