Quick Summary: Yasar Arafath, also known as Mannadi Yaser, was arrested in Chennai on drug charges. However, because of mistakes made during the arrest, his detention was considered illegal, leading to his release.
On August 22, 2025, the police in Madhavaram, Chennai, received information about illegal drug transport. They stopped a vehicle and found several drugs, including MMDA Ecstasy Pills, LSD Stamps, and Methamphetamine, with five people. The next day, August 23, 2025, Yasar Arafath was arrested based on their statements.
Yasar's lawyer, Mr. K. Nizamuddin, argued that the arrest was not legal because Yasar wasn't given a written reason for his arrest. This is required under Indian law, as shown in a Supreme Court case, Mihir Rajesh Shah v. State of Maharashtra.
The police, represented by Dr. C.E. Pratap, said they followed all procedures and told Yasar why he was being arrested. However, they couldn't show written proof of this communication.
Judge Sunder Mohan of the Madras High Court decided that not giving a written explanation violated Yasar's basic rights. The court stated:
"The arrest becomes illegal and consequently, the remand also would not be justified."
Yasar was ordered to be released with conditions, including a bond of Rs. 25,000 and regular court appearances.
Yasar must:
The court noted that the police could try to detain Yasar again if they follow the Supreme Court's rules on arrest procedures. The case highlights the importance of following correct procedures during arrests to protect people's rights.
In summary, the court ruled Yasar's arrest was illegal due to procedural errors, leading to his release with conditions.
