DMK MLA – Anitha R Radhakrishnan Secures Bail in Tiruchendur Defamation Case
DMK MLA – DMK MLA and former Tamil Nadu minister Anitha R Radhakrishnan was granted bail by a court in Tiruchendur on Saturday in a case linked to alleged remarks against Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Vijay Joseph. The legislator had been arrested a day earlier after a case was registered at Athoor Police Station.
Court Grants Bail After Detailed Hearing
Radhakrishnan was produced before Judicial Magistrate Chidambaram after undergoing a medical examination at Thoothukudi Government Medical College Hospital. The bail hearing continued for more than 90 minutes, with the prosecution and defence placing their arguments before the court.
After considering submissions from both sides, the magistrate allowed the bail plea. The court also instructed those present to ensure that no disorder or law and order issue developed inside or around the court complex.
Speaking to journalists after leaving the court, Radhakrishnan said that justice had been delivered. He later departed in a private vehicle as DMK supporters gathered outside the premises to welcome him.
Defence Questions Arrest Procedure
During the hearing, Radhakrishnan’s legal team challenged the manner in which he was taken into custody. The defence argued that the arrest did not follow the safeguards laid down under Section 41 and claimed that his health condition had not been properly considered by the authorities.
The lawyers also told the court that the MLA had not accepted the first summons. However, they said a response to the second summons had been sent through counsel, informing the investigating officer that Radhakrishnan was prepared to appear on July 10.
According to the defence, the MLA had conveyed his willingness to cooperate with the investigation, making his arrest unnecessary. The legal team further maintained that there was no valid reason to believe that he would create a public order problem.
Prosecution Cites Preventive Action
The prosecution defended the arrest, saying it had been carried out as a preventive measure. It argued that the authorities acted to avoid the possibility of disturbances or tension related to the case.
Responding to that position, the defence said Radhakrishnan was a sitting legislator who regularly met members of the public and had no history suggesting that his presence would lead to unrest. The lawyers alleged that the police moved quickly despite being informed about his planned appearance before the investigating officer.
The court heard both versions before granting bail, while also stressing the need to maintain peace at the court premises.
MLA Alleges Political Pressure
After his arrest, Radhakrishnan alleged that the case was part of an effort to pressure him into resigning as an MLA and joining the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. He rejected any suggestion that he would switch political sides.
The former minister said he would remain with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam under the leadership of party president and Chief Minister MK Stalin. He also said he would not yield to political pressure.
Radhakrishnan has been booked under Sections 352 and 353(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The provisions relate to allegations of statements that could potentially lead to a breach of peace.
The case is expected to proceed as investigators continue their inquiry into the remarks attributed to the DMK legislator.