Chennai:
In a major development, the Tamil Nadu police have invoked the Goondas Act against YouTuber Mukthar and political commentator Trichy Surya Siva in connection with a cybercrime case involving alleged obscene and defamatory remarks made during an online programme. Notably, Trichy Surya Siva is the son of senior DMK leader and Rajya Sabha MP Tiruchi Siva.
The case was registered based on a complaint filed by a BJP functionary, who accused the accused of making derogatory and sexually explicit comments about her and her children on a YouTube platform. Following the complaint, the Cyber Crime Wing initiated an investigation and booked both individuals under relevant legal provisions.
Subsequently, the police arrested Mukthar and Trichy Surya. During the investigation, officials stated that the content circulated online was not only defamatory but also aimed at insulting the dignity of the complainant, prompting strict legal action. Both were remanded to judicial custody as part of the proceedings.
Considering the seriousness of the allegations and the potential impact on public order, authorities later invoked the Goondas Act against the two. This preventive detention law allows the government to detain individuals without immediate trial in order to prevent activities deemed harmful to public peace and order.
With the Goondas Act now in force, the detention period of Mukthar and Trichy Surya has been extended beyond normal custody limits, subject to legal review. Police sources indicated that the move was taken to prevent further dissemination of similar content and to maintain social harmony.
The case has triggered widespread discussion on the misuse of digital platforms, the limits of free speech, and the need for strict action against online abuse, especially when it targets women and children. Investigations are ongoing, and officials have not ruled out further action against others linked to the controversial content.