Madras HC initiates suo motu action against Tamil Nadu minister

Case involves Minister Ponmudy comparing Shaiva and Vaishnava Tilaks to obscene sexual symbols

(DMK – Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam)

Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister Ponmudi

Chennai – On 23^rd April, the Madras High Court initiated suo motu legal proceedings against Tamil Nadu’s Higher Education Minister and DMK leader Ponmudy for allegedly making derogatory comparisons between the Shaiva tilak (horizontal forehead mark) and the Vaishnava tilak (vertical forehead mark) with obscene sexual imagery. Justice Anand Venkatesh directed that the matter be placed before the Chief Justice for further action. The Court observed that the Minister’s statements appear prima facie to be hateful and emphasized that they were offensive to women and deeply hurt the religious sentiments of the Shaiva and Vaishnava sects, two major Hindu traditions in the State.

Editorial Perspective

When a Higher Education Minister’s mind is filled with obscenity, one need not imagine the mindset of students emerging from the education system under his regime ! It’s disgraceful that such individuals are elected by the public !

Court criticises Police inaction despite orders

Despite being ordered by the High Court on 17^th April 2025 to register a case against Minister Ponmudy, the Police took no action. The Court strongly criticised this inaction, stating there must be zero tolerance for hate speech. Justice Venkatesh expressed displeasure over the Police’s passive stance and warned that failure to comply with Court orders would lead to legal consequences. However, the Police continued to remain inactive. The court remarked, ‘Persistent inaction is the most distressing of all’.

Editorial Perspective

Please note the arrogance of Police who ignore even Court orders ! How can such irresponsible officials protect the public ? If the judiciary itself is forced to take direct action, what is the need for such a Police force ?