Madras HC asks TN govt to file response to PIL seeking Ponmudy’s removal by June 5
Advocate Jagannath argued that Ponmudy’s remarks violate his constitutional oath and the secular principles of public office
The Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to file a response by June 5 to a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking the removal of Forest Minister K Ponmudy.
The PIL, filed by advocate B Jagannath, alleges that Ponmudy made derogatory remarks about Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and women during a closed-door meeting.
The controversy broke out after a video of his speech at an event organised by the Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam (TPDK) was circulated online. In this speech, he reportedly used a crude analogy to mock religious symbols and made derogatory remarks about women.
Also read: Madras HC orders FIR against TN Minister Ponmudy for derogatory speech
Following public outcry, DMK president and Chief Minister MK Stalin removed Ponmudy from his party position as the deputy general secretary on April 11. However, he remains a minister in the Tamil Nadu cabinet.
Advocate Jagannath argued that Ponmudy’s remarks violate his constitutional oath and the secular principles of public office. The petition also claims that the Tamil Nadu police have not taken action despite complaints against him. Previously, on April 17, the Madras High Court had ordered the police to register an FIR against the minister by April 23.
During the hearing, the Advocate General of Tamil Nadu raised objections to parts of advocate Jagannath’s additional affidavit, which were then agreed to be removed. The court subsequently ordered the government to respond to the PIL by June 5.