Seeman, the leader of the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), has strongly condemned the arrest of actress Kasthuri, who was detained in connection with remarks she made about Telugu-speaking people. The comments led to complaints being filed against her with the Chennai and Madurai police commissioners, resulting in the registration of cases at police stations in Ezhumbur and Thirunagar. Kasthuri’s bail plea was rejected, and she was arrested in Hyderabad before being brought to Chennai, where she appeared before the Ezhumbur court. The judge ordered her to remain in judicial custody until November 29.In a recent statement during an event in Arasalar village, Seeman voiced his opposition to the arrest, questioning the necessity and proportionality of the legal actions taken against Kasthuri. He stated, “This arrest is unnecessary. No one was harmed or hurt by her comments. It seems like a deliberate attempt to take revenge. If what she said is considered offensive, then I ask, are we to remain silent when people continuously degrade an entire Tamil ethnic group and label us as Dravidians for centuries? How much hurt have we endured as Tamils?”
Seeman further criticized the way the authorities are handling the situation, pointing out the selective nature of legal action in the country. He raised pertinent questions, saying, “Those who have exploited the nation, sold mountains, misappropriated funds, engaged in corruption, and committed heinous crimes are still free. Yet, when an individual speaks out, she is arrested urgently and sent to jail. Is this how justice is administered?”
Seeman also highlighted the inconsistency in handling public remarks, especially in the context of political discourse. He emphasized the difference between political disagreements and personal attacks, noting that while criticism in politics is common, it should not lead to criminal actions unless there is a clear harm caused to others.
He questioned the rush to arrest Kasthuri, saying that while speaking against others’ beliefs or making political statements might be offensive, it is not a crime deserving of urgent punishment. He suggested that if she had made a mistake, an apology should have sufficed, rather than subjecting her to such harsh measures.
Seeman concluded by raising a broader issue, pointing out the ongoing impunity of individuals involved in severe criminal activities, such as corruption and violence, who continue to walk free while lesser offenses are met with swift and severe legal action. He asked, “Why are those involved in serious crimes, such as exploitation, rape, and murder, allowed to roam freely while an actress faces jail time for her comments?”