The Coimbatore city police have taken decisive action against YouTuber A Shankar, also known as Savukku Shankar, following his alleged derogatory remarks against women police personnel during an interview on another YouTube channel. On Monday, the police moved the Judicial Magistrate Court IV to seek custody of Shankar for further interrogation.Shankar’s arrest by the cybercrime wing of the police occurred on May 4 in Theni, where he was apprehended for his controversial comments. The arrest came in response to a complaint lodged by a woman Sub-Inspector from the crime branch, prompting authorities to take swift action against the YouTuber.
Facing charges under various sections, including the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Woman Act and section 67 of the Information Technology (I-T) Act, 2000, Shankar was remanded in judicial custody until May 17. Currently housed in the Coimbatore Central Prison, his case has garnered widespread attention and sparked debate over freedom of expression versus accountability for offensive speech.
In a bid to further probe the matter and gather additional evidence, the Coimbatore city police have filed a petition seeking Shankar’s custody. The petition is scheduled for hearing on Tuesday, underscoring the urgency and gravity of the situation.