Last Updated:April 17, 2025, 18:47 IST

DMK leader K Ponmudy allegedly made derogatory and hate speeches against women and religious denominations with his Shaivism-Vaishnavism remarks made in the context of a sex worker at a public meeting

The Madras HC said when the government was taking serious action against others for making hate speech, it should be the same for its own party members. (Image for representation)

The Madras High Court on Thursday directed the Tamil Nadu police to file a case against state forest minister K Ponmudy, following his recent controversial remarks that cost him his party post.

Ponmudy allegedly made derogatory and hate speeches against women and religious denominations. He stirred a controversy with his Shaivism-Vaishnavism remarks made in the context of a sex worker at a public meeting, drawing widespread criticism, including from his own party MP Kanimozhi.

According to a report published by Live Law, the court said when the government was taking serious action against others for making hate speech, it should be the same for its own party members. “When the government takes seriously about the hate speech made by others, the same should be done when a person who is part of the government makes it. And it’s not some ordinary thing which he has uttered. We’ve all heard it,” Justice N Anand Venkatesh was quoted.

The high court cautioned the police that if they do not register FIR against the DMK leader, it will initiate suo motu (on its own) contempt against them. “Now the court has taken cognizance of the matter. Even if you do not have a complaint, register a case and proceed with the investigation,” warned the judge.

The judge posted to April 23, further hearing of the suo motu proceedings.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president MK Stalin had removed Ponmudy as the party’s deputy general secretary, even as the senior leader later tendered an apology for his “inappropriate remarks”.

(With PTI inputs)