Madras HC takes stern view on Tamil Nadu minister Ponmudy’s remarks on women, religious sects

Ponmudy’s speech, delivered at a meeting organised by the Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam in early April, referred to women who avail free bus rides under a state welfare scheme and included analogies referencing religious practices in Saivism and Vaishnavism. Videos of the speech circulated on social media, triggering outrage and condemnation. Ponmudy was also dropped from a key party post in DMK after the controversy.

Justice Venkatesh, during the hearing of a separate suo motu revision petition concerning Ponmudy’s earlier acquittal in a disproportionate assets case, summoned Advocate General P S Raman and questioned why no criminal proceedings had been initiated. The judge observed that Ponmudy’s apology could not absolve the matter, pointing out that the remarks appeared “conscious” and not mere slips of the tongue.

The court also flagged the conditional suspension of Ponmudy’s conviction in another assets case by the Supreme Court, cautioning that the order could be revoked in light of possible violations of the good conduct condition attached to it. The judge directed the Advocate General to obtain details from the state police chief regarding any action taken and report back by Thursday evening.

Separately, advocate B Jagannath filed a PIL petition seeking Ponmudy’s disqualification, arguing that the speech violated Articles 188 and 99 of the Constitution, which mandate ministers to uphold the Constitution and serve public welfare.

The petition called the speech “grotesque, shameful, and derogatory”, particularly for allegedly mocking Hindu religious symbols and women, and questioned the legality of the event itself, suggesting possible political interference in its clearance.

Jagannath argued that Ponmudy’s conduct undermined Article 21, which guarantees the right to dignity and life, and said that hate speech, even under the banner of secularism or free speech, could not be condoned for constitutional authorities.

The next hearing is on April 23.