Madras High Court Sounds Alarm: YouTube Channels Menacing Society

In a recent session presided over by Justice K Kumaresh Babu at the Madras High Court, concerns were raised about the proliferation of certain YouTube channels.

The court’s observation highlighted that these channels are actively promoting derogatory content in pursuit of subscriber growth, leading to their characterization as a “menace to society.” Furthermore, Justice Babu emphasized the necessity for governmental intervention to address and regulate these concerning activities.

During the hearing of G Felix Gerald’s anticipatory bail petition, associated with the RedPix YouTube channel, the Court criticized the interview process, questioning its integrity. Gerald faces legal action under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Woman Act of 1988 following an interview with YouTuber Savukku Shankar, where derogatory statements were allegedly made.

Following an interview where derogatory remarks were allegedly made by Shankar against women and women police personnel, complaints were filed against both Shankar and Gerald across the state earlier this week. Shankar was subsequently arrested by the Coimbatore Police on May 4 and is currently in custody at Coimbatore Central Prison.

Gerald sought protection from arrest by approaching the High Court. However, on Thursday, Additional Public Prosecutor E Raj Thilak opposed Gerald’s plea, stating that during the interview, Gerald had encouraged Shankar to make derogatory statements against women police personnel. Thilak also mentioned Gerald’s failure to cooperate with the police despite summons.

Responding to this, the Court suggested Gerald should be treated as an accused alongside Shankar and granted a week’s time for the police to file a counter-affidavit to Gerald’s anticipatory bail plea.