Summary: On November 25, 2025, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court dropped charges against Muthuraj, Sankar, and Gayathri, who were accused of several offenses during a protest in Tirunelveli District.
On May 8, 2024, a protest led by Isakki Raja took place in Tirunelveli, asking for specific community appointments at the Devarkulam Police Station. Muthuraj, Sankar, Gayathri, and others were said to have blocked a police van, causing damage and insulting officers.
Muthuraj, Sankar, and Gayathri, identified as A62, A24, and A58, faced accusations under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including being part of an illegal group and damaging public property. Their lawyer argued that the accusations were too harsh and not supported by evidence.
"The people involved only took part in a protest... the legal action is a misuse of the law."
Justice Sunder Mohan noted that the protest did not match the alleged offenses. The court pointed out the lack of evidence for key accusations like causing damage and making threats.
"The threat should be a real one and not just mere words..."
The court found no solid proof of the alleged Rs.5,000 damage to the van. Without proper assessment or identification of those responsible, the accusation was dismissed.
The court emphasized the importance of allowing people to express their opinions, ruling that the accusations under Sections 143 and 341 of the IPC were not applicable.
"No democratic dissent can ever be shown by the citizens..."
On November 25, 2025, the court dropped the final report against Muthuraj, Sankar, and Gayathri, reaffirming their right to protest without facing unnecessary legal consequences. This decision is an important moment in protecting citizens' rights to express dissatisfaction peacefully.
