Madras High Court Warns Politicians Against Acting Like Royalty in Ponmudy Case

Rapid Summary

• Justice P. Velmurugan of the Madras High Court argued politicians should not consider themselves as sovereign or immune under the legal maxim rex no potest peccare (“the king can do no wrong”).
• This statement was made during a hearing related to 124 complaints against former Minister K. Ponmudy for his offensive speech targeting Saivites, Vaishnavites, and women at an event on april 8, 2025.
• Tamil Nadu police reportedly closed all these complaints; however, Justice Velmurugan intends to monitor actions taken by higher officials on this matter.
• Justice N. Anand Venkatesh earlier took suo motu cognisance of Ponmudy’s speech due to rising concerns about offensive language in political discourse.
• the judge emphasized that respect for all citizens is essential in a democratic society and criticized politicians using public forums irresponsibly.
• Former Minister Ponmudy had been relieved of his DMK post and removed from the Tamil Nadu Cabinet following widespread criticism of his remarks, including condemnation by DMK Deputy General Secretary Kanimozhi and others within his party.
• The High Court Registry has been directed to list the case for further hearing on August 1,2025.

Indian Opinion Analysis

Justice P.Velmurugan’s observations highlight an crucial debate regarding accountability among those holding positions of power in India’s democracy. Public leaders have significant influence over social cohesion through their words; unfiltered or derogatory speeches can complicate efforts towards fostering inclusivity across communities diverse in faith and culture like Saivites or Vaishnavites backdrop/Women mentions.Monitoring closure approach/post-action anticipated-output hinges credibility/justice adherence 강화합니다 rnrn—