Chennai, May 21:
The Tamil Nadu government has revoked the preventive detention imposed under the Goondas Act against YouTuber A. Shankar (50), popularly known as ‘Savukku’ Shankar, a political commentator and critic of the DMK government.
According to a Government Order issued by the Home, Prohibition and Excise Department, the detention order passed on April 9, 2026, by the then Greater Chennai Commissioner of Police under the Tamil Nadu Prevention of Dangerous Activities Act, 1982—commonly referred to as the Goondas Act—has been withdrawn.
The revocation follows a detailed review of the grounds of detention, relevant records, and the oral submissions made by the detenue. The Advisory Board, after examining the case, concluded that there was no sufficient cause to continue the detention under the stringent law.
Based on the Board’s recommendation, the State government led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, who also holds the Home portfolio, ordered Shankar’s release from detention, unless he is required in connection with any other case.
The move comes days after the Madras High Court granted bail to Shankar in two separate cases, further strengthening the case for his release from custody.