The Madras High Court has ordered the closure of a case filed against former DMK minister K. Ponmudi over his alleged derogatory remarks about Saivism, Vaishnavism, and women.The controversy began when Ponmudi, speaking at a DMK meeting in Chennai, made remarks perceived as insulting to Saiva and Vaishnava traditions. His comments drew widespread criticism from political and religious circles. In response, the DMK removed Ponmudi from his ministerial post as well as his party responsibilities.
Following the outcry, the Madras High Court took suo motu cognizance of the issue. During earlier hearings, Justice N. Sathish Kumar directed the police to submit evidence, including the full video of Ponmudi’s speech. The video and related documents were presented before the court, which reserved the matter for further examination.
When the case was taken up again on Tuesday, the High Court ruled to close it. The judge, however, stressed that Ponmudi, as someone who held an important public position, should have refrained from making such remarks.
The court also criticized the police, noting that they should have conducted a proper inquiry with the complainants instead of closing the matter outright.
While ordering closure, the court clarified that individuals still have the right to file personal complaints against Ponmudi. If such complaints are dismissed by the police, complainants can approach the appropriate magistrate court for further legal action.
The ruling effectively ends the High Court’s direct involvement but leaves the door open for citizens to seek redress through the regular judicial process.