In a firm response to an upcoming publication that allegedly defames a sitting judge, the Madras High Court on Wednesday directed police authorities to seize copies of a controversial book and halt its planned release at the 49th Chennai Book Fair. The action comes after the court found the material to be derogatory and scandalous, potentially undermining public confidence in the judiciary.The book in question, published by Keezhaikaatru Publishers, was set to be displayed and sold at the book fair starting January 8 at the Nandanam YMCA Grounds. It is reported to contain highly abusive and derogatory language, caricatures and statements directed against Justice G.R. Swaminathan, a sitting judge of the Madras High Court. The court observed that the content, including its title and visual portrayals, crossed acceptable limits of criticism and bordered on contempt.
A division bench led by Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G. Arul Murugan took suo motu cognisance of the matter and initiated contempt proceedings against the publisher, issuing an interim order to block the book’s release. The judges emphasised that while legitimate criticism of judicial decisions is permissible, personal attacks intended to ridicule a judge could not be justified under free speech protections.
The court specifically instructed the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police and Chennai City Police Commissioner to ensure that no copies of the book are circulated, sold or exhibited at the fair or elsewhere. The police were also directed to seize any such materials — including in digital form — to prevent further dissemination.
A petition was filed by advocate P. Naveenprasad, who argued that the publication’s title and cover design were scandalous, derogatory and abusive toward Justice Swaminathan. The court has set the matter for further hearing later this month, and authorities must report back on compliance with the order.