New Delhi. The Madras High Court started proceedings by taking self -cognizance against the recent speeches of Tamil Nadu Minister Ponmudi. Justice Anand Venkatesh has also reprimanded Ponmudi for objectionable remarks made on Shaiva, Vaishnav and women. The judge said that the minister’s comments are completely derogatory for women and there is a deliberate attack on two main sects of Hinduism, Vaishnavism and Shaivism. His act comes under the category of crime under Section 79, 196 (1) (B), 296 (A), 299 etc. of BNS prima facie. The court said that Ponmudi not only hurt the religious sentiments of Vaishnavas and Shaivas.
Justice Venkatesh said that the minister had admitted to making objectionable statements and was removed from the post. Nevertheless, the police officer, who was assigned the task of action in the case, showed the inaction. Which is the most disturbing thing. Justice Venkatesh said that the court is bound to ensure that the Tamil Nadu Police should follow the Supreme Court’s instructions that have been given in connection with the hate speech. He said that the police should have a role of zero tolerance in matters related to hatred speech. The judge also reminded that Minister Ponmudi was convicted by the same court in a corruption case. Justice Venkatesh said that this order was stayed by the Supreme Court, so he continued to enjoy independence. He misused this freedom through a very derogatory speech.
Controversy over Ponmudi’s statement
Ponmudi recently told the story during an event that once a man went to the sex worker. The sex worker woman asked the man whether he is Shaiva or Vaishnav. Ponmudi further said, when the man did not understand the sex worker, then he asked what he applies with Pattai (Ada Tilak, which people of Shaiva sect,) or name (straightforward Tilak, which people of Vaishnava sect). Then the sex worker tells him that if you are Shaiva then there will be a lying position and if you are Vaishnav, then there will be a standing position.
