#madras_high_court

Madras High Court Acknowledges Judicial Corruption, Rejects Film Ban Petition The Madras High Court has acknowledged the existence of judicial corruption in India, rejecting a petition that sought to ban a Tamil film for allegedly defaming the judiciary. The court’s decision came amid a broader discussion about the role of the judiciary and the boundaries of artistic expression. The petition, filed by the film’s producer, argued that a scene depicting a judge accepting bribes and consuming drugs violated constitutional principles and undermined the dignity of the judiciary. The court bench, comprising Justices GR Swaminathan and V Lakshminarayanan, dismissed the petition but highlighted the systemic issue of corruption within the judiciary. The judges stated that no one can deny the presence of corrupt practices in the legal system, noting that such cases have been documented over time. They emphasized that the judiciary must remain vigilant in addressing these issues, with the High Court regularly taking action against corrupt judges. The film in question, directed by Balaji, features a scene where a judge is shown engaging in unethical behavior. The petition argued that this portrayal was an attack on the judiciary’s integrity and violated the Indian Constitution’s principles. However, the court countered that while the film exaggerated the flaws of the legal system, it was a common practice in Tamil cinema to dramatize real-world issues. The judges ruled that artistic freedom allows creators to present sensitive topics, even if the portrayal is critical or exaggerated. The court also addressed the broader implications of the case, stating that judicial corruption cannot be ignored.#madras_high_court #balaji #tamil_cinema #gr_swaminathan #v_lakshminarayanan

Madras High Court Acknowledges Judicial Corruption, Rejects Film Ban Request The Madras High Court recently addressed allegations of judicial corruption, stating that dishonest judges have existed and continue to do so. The court explicitly rejected a petition seeking to ban the Tamil film Karpai (Kruppu), which portrays the Indian judiciary as corrupt. The court emphasized that while the legal system faces challenges, it cannot be entirely dismissed as a "holy cow" or untouchable entity. The court’s ruling followed a petition filed by lawyer R.S. Tamilvendan, who argued that the film’s depiction of the judiciary as corrupt and dysfunctional harms public trust in the legal system. The petitioner claimed that the film’s portrayal of judges and court procedures as deeply flawed could damage the reputation of the judiciary. However, the High Court dismissed the request, stating that the film’s exaggerated portrayal of corruption is a common trope in Tamil cinema. The court acknowledged that judicial corruption is a reality, citing statements from former Chief Justice of India S.P. Bharucha, who had previously claimed that approximately 20% of judges are corrupt. The court also referenced the views of legal experts like Prashant Bhushan and Shanti Bhushan, who have long criticized the judiciary’s integrity. However, the court clarified that it does not endorse the sensationalized narratives often presented in such cases. In its order, the court highlighted that it is aware of numerous instances of judicial misconduct and has taken administrative actions to address such issues. Justice G.R. Swaminathan and Justice V. Lakshminarayanan, the judges presiding over the case, stated that while the legal system is not perfect, it cannot be entirely discredited.#madras_high_court #prashant_bhushan #r_s_tamilvendan #s_p_bharucha #shanti_bhushan

Madras High Court Investigates Allegations of Child Use in Tamil Nadu Election Campaign The Madras High Court on Thursday directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to respond to a public interest litigation (PIL) petition alleging that the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party, led by incumbent Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, used children to solicit votes during the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The petition, filed by advocate Vasuki, accused TVK of employing minors as tools for electoral propaganda, with specific references to a public meeting held at YMCA Grounds in Chennai on April 21. During the event, Vijay allegedly addressed children directly, urging them to influence their parents’ voting preferences, a practice the petitioner claims violated electoral norms. The court bench, comprising Justices GR Swaminathan and V Lakshminarayanan, questioned whether a political party could be disqualified for engaging in corrupt practices, as outlined in Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The counsel for the petitioner argued that the allegations centered on “vote for money” schemes and the exploitation of children for electoral gains. He cited evidence that Vijay’s party had thanked children in post-election addresses, further fueling concerns about the use of minors in political campaigns. The court emphasized the need for an investigation, instructing the ECI to provide a detailed response on the matter. The PIL also leveled broader accusations against other major parties, including the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), alleging cash-for-votes practices in constituencies such as Mylapore, Alangulam, and Thirumangalam.#madras_high_court #election_commission_of_india #tamilaga_vettri_kazhagam #c_joseph_vijay #ymca_grounds

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay’s Appeal to Children Sparks Legal Inquiry Over Electoral Practices A public interest litigation (PIL) petition has been filed in the Madras High Court, demanding an investigation by the Election Commission of India (ECI) into allegations that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay exploited children for electoral propaganda during the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections. The petition, filed by advocate L. Vasuki through her counsel Kanimozhi Mathi, also seeks an inquiry into claims of cash distribution by DMK and AIADMK members to influence voters in key constituencies. The case highlights concerns over the integrity of the electoral process and the use of minors in political campaigns. The PIL alleges that Vijay, leader of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party, made an appeal to children during his campaign for the April 23, 2026, polls, urging them to ensure their adult family members voted for his party. The petition argues that this appeal constitutes the "exploitation of minor children for electoral propaganda and indirect voter influence." The TN Commission for Protection of Child Rights has reportedly recommended legal action against Vijay for using children to sway electoral outcomes. The case also addresses broader allegations of electoral malpractice by major parties. According to the petition, an anti-corruption organization, Arappor Iyakkam, submitted a representation to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) on April 22, 2026, highlighting cash distribution by DMK and AIADMK members in the Alangulam, Mylapore, and Tirumangalam constituencies. The petitioner claims that despite the gravity of these allegations, no transparent or effective inquiry has been initiated by the ECI or CEO.#madras_high_court #election_commission_of_india #tamilaga_vettri_kazhagam #tamil_nadu_cm_vijay #arappor_iyakkam

Madras High Court Issues Notice On PIL Alleging Electoral Corruption During TN Polls, Use Of Children By TVK To Influence Voters The Madras High Court has issued a notice to the Election Commission of India and three major political parties—Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and All India Anna Dravida Kazhagam (AIADMK)—in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) alleging electoral malpractices during the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections. The court’s bench, comprising Justice GR Swaminathan and Justice V Lakshminarayanan, emphasized that while election petitions can be filed against individual candidates, the current case involves allegations against the political parties themselves, necessitating further investigation. The PIL, filed by Advocate L Vasuki, accuses the three parties of engaging in corrupt practices, including electoral bribery, cash-for-votes, and undue influence on voters. A key allegation centers on the alleged use of minor children to sway parental votes. The petitioner claims that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, who is also the president of TVK, directed children during the election campaign to emotionally pressure their parents to support the party. This, according to Vasuki, constitutes a violation of Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act (RP Act), which prohibits undue influence over voters. The petitioner further highlights the distribution of money to voters and cash-for-votes in multiple constituencies, arguing that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has failed to act despite widespread complaints.#madras_high_court #dmk #tamil_nadu #election_commission_of_india #tvk

DMK MP seeks ED probe against BJP leader in cash-for-votes case A member of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party has approached the Madras High Court, requesting an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) into allegations of a cash-for-votes scheme involving BJP leader Nainar Nagendran. The legal petition argues that the ED’s failure to act in the matter constitutes an "arbitrary and illegal" delay, with the petitioner suggesting that political considerations may be influencing the agency’s decision-making process. The case centers on accusations that Nagendran, a prominent BJP figure in Tamil Nadu, was involved in a scheme where cash was allegedly exchanged for votes during recent elections. The DMK MP, whose name is not specified in the text, claims that the ED has not taken proactive measures to probe the allegations despite the availability of evidence. The plea highlights concerns that the agency’s inaction is not based on legal grounds but rather on external pressures, potentially undermining the integrity of the electoral process. The legal filing was submitted on March 26, 2026, and the court has yet to schedule a hearing. The case has drawn attention due to its implications for the political landscape of Tamil Nadu, where allegations of electoral malpractice have been a recurring issue. The DMK, a major opposition party in the state, has consistently criticized the ruling BJP for alleged corruption and misuse of power. This development adds to the ongoing tensions between the two parties, which have been marked by frequent legal battles and public disputes. The ED, which is responsible for enforcing economic laws and investigating financial crimes, has not publicly commented on the matter.#madras_high_court #tamil_nadu #enforcement_directorate #dmk_mp #nainar_nagendran

DMK MP Seeks Legal Action Against BJP Officials in 'Cash for Vote' Case A member of parliament from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has approached the Madras High Court, demanding that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) take action against BJP's State President Nainar Nagendran and former State General Secretary Kesava Vinayagam in a case linked to alleged "cash for vote" activities. The legal petition was filed by Rajya Sabha MP R Girirajan, who argued that the ED has failed to investigate the matter despite clear evidence of financial misconduct. The case centers around the seizure of Rs. 3.99 crore from three train passengers at Tambaram Railway Station on April 7. These individuals were identified as close associates of Nagendran, and they allegedly admitted to carrying the money to distribute among voters on behalf of Nagendran during the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. Girirajan highlighted that the case was transferred to the Central Bureau of Crime Investigation (CBCID), and an FIR was registered under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 171(C), 171(E), 171(F), 120(b), 109, and 511 read with 188. Girirajan emphasized that the alleged offenses fall under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), which mandates the ED to register an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) and initiate proceedings when scheduled offenses are involved. He contended that the ED's inaction, despite the availability of evidence, constitutes a violation of legal obligations and undermines the constitutional guarantee of Article 21. The MP argued that the ED's failure to act is influenced by external factors, including political considerations, which compromises the integrity of the law.#madras_high_court #bjp_state_president #dmk_mp #nainar_nagendran #kesava_vinayagam

Madras High Court Orders Gautham Vasudev Menon to Return Rs 4.25 Crores The Madras High Court has directed director Gautham Vasudev Menon to repay Rs 4.25 crores to producer Elred Kumar, overturning a 2022 single judge’s order that mandated the same. The court’s decision came after reviewing an appeal filed by Menon, who contested the earlier ruling. The case revolves around a film project titled Production No 6, which was intended to star Silambarasan TR but was never made. Menon had received the advance payment from Kumar, owner of RS Infotainment, in 2008 to produce the film. However, the project was abandoned, leading Kumar to file a case against Menon in the Madras High Court. In 2022, a single judge ruled that Menon must return the full amount, citing the failure to complete the film. Menon subsequently appealed the decision, arguing the initial order was unjust. On March 23, 2026, a bench comprising Justices P Velmurugan and K Govindarajan Thilakavathi reviewed the case. The court upheld the appeal, nullifying the single judge’s order and reinstating the requirement for Menon to return the Rs 4.25 crores to Kumar. The ruling emphasizes the legal principle that financial obligations tied to unfulfilled contractual commitments must be honored, even if the project was not completed. The case highlights the complexities of contractual disputes in the film industry, where advances for unmade projects often lead to legal battles. Kumar’s claim underscores the risks producers face when investing in projects that fail to materialize, while Menon’s appeal reflects the director’s defense of his position. The court’s decision reaffirms the importance of accountability in such agreements, setting a precedent for similar cases.#madras_high_court #gautham_vasudev_menon #elred_kumar #rs_infotainment #production_no_6

Gautham Vasudev Menon loses case in Madras High Court, ordered to pay ₹4.25 crore to R.S. Infotainment A Division Bench of the Madras High Court dismissed Gautham Vasudev Menon’s appeal against a single judge’s order to pay ₹4.25 crore to R.S. Infotainment, along with interest at 12% per annum from May 2010. The court upheld the decision of Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy, who had ruled in favor of the production house in a civil suit filed in 2013. The case centered on Menon’s alleged failure to complete an untitled film referred to as “production no. 6.” R.S. Infotainment had accused Menon of not fulfilling his obligations under a contract, seeking ₹13.5 crore. Menon and his partnership firm contested the suit, arguing that R.S. Infotainment had not paid the full amount and that the film was completed under a different title. They claimed the movie, initially titled “Nithya,” was released in 2012 as Neethaane En Ponvasantham and that their obligations were fulfilled. Menon himself testified in the case, appearing as both a witness and subject to cross-examination. The court, however, rejected Menon’s claims, stating there was no evidence that the ₹4.25 crore paid by R.S. Infotainment was used for producing the film. The judge directed Menon and his firm to repay the amount, plus interest, and cover legal costs totaling ₹12 lakh, including ₹9.57 lakh in court fees and ₹2.5 lakh in lawyer’s fees. The ruling emphasized that the production house’s financial commitment was not tied to the film’s eventual release under a different title. The case highlights ongoing legal disputes in the film industry, where contractual obligations and financial commitments often lead to protracted litigation.#madras_high_court #gautham_vasudev_menon #r_s_infotainment #neethaane_en_ponvasantham #civil_suit

Madras High Court Issues Interim Stay in Sridevi Property Dispute The Madras High Court has temporarily halted proceedings in a property dispute involving the late actress Sridevi, granting an interim stay to the case. The order was issued to pause legal actions in a civil court in Chengalpattu, where competing claims over a piece of land along Chennai's East Coast Road were being contested. The court’s decision provides relief to Sridevi’s family, who have been challenging the validity of the claims. The dispute centers on a 4.77-acre plot purchased by Sridevi in 1988 from the family of Sambandha Mudaliar. Court records indicate that the actress and her family have held and used the property for over three decades. The conflict emerged when three individuals, including Natarajan and Sivagami—identified as the son and daughter of Chandrasekaran Mudaliar’s second wife—obtained a legal heir certificate and filed a civil suit in Chengalpattu, asserting their right to a share of the property. Sridevi’s husband, film producer Boney Kapoor, along with their daughters Janhvi Kapoor and Khushi Kapoor, contested the suit in the Chengalpattu court, requesting its dismissal. However, the court rejected their plea, stating that issues of title and ownership could only be resolved after a full trial. The Kapoor family, dissatisfied with this ruling, appealed to the Madras High Court, arguing that the claimants had fraudulently secured the legal heir certificate through fabricated documents. In their petition, the Kapoors alleged that the claimants misrepresented facts to obtain the certificate from the Tambaram Tahsildar office in 2005.#janhvi_kapoor #madras_high_court #boney_kapoor #khushi_kapoor #sridevi

Boney Kapoor moves Madras High Court over Sridevi’s Chennai property dispute Boney Kapoor and his daughters Jahnvi Kapoor and Kushi Kapoor have filed a petition in the Madras High Court to challenge an order from the additional district court in Chengalpattu. The court had rejected their request to dismiss a lawsuit filed by three individuals claiming rights to a 4.77-acre plot on East Coast Road, which Sridevi purchased in 1988. The petition seeks to overturn the additional district court’s decision, which allowed the case to proceed despite the Kapoor family’s arguments. The petitioners assert that Sridevi acquired the land from Sambandam Mudaliyar in 1988 and has held possession of it since then. However, in 2025, a woman named Chandrababu, along with her children Sivakami and Natarajan, filed a suit against the Kapoor family. Chandrababu claimed to be the wife of Chandrasekharan, the son of Sambandam Mudaliyar, and therefore entitled to a share of the property. The court, however, did not dismiss the suit, despite Chandrababu’s status as the second wife of Chandrasekharan. Chandrasekharan was already married to another woman before Chandrababu, and their marriage is considered invalid under Indian law. The additional district court, presided over by Justice TV Thamilselvi, adjourned the case to March 26, 2026, pending further proceedings. The Kapoor family’s petition argues that the court’s refusal to dismiss the case undermines their legal claim to the property, which they assert was legally transferred to Sridevi. The dispute highlights the complexities of property rights in cases involving multiple claims and contested marital relationships. The Madras High Court’s ruling will determine whether the Kapoor family’s ownership of the land can be upheld against the claims of Chandrababu and her family.#madras_high_court #kushi_kapoor #boney_kapoor #jahnvi_kapoor #chandrababu

The review screening of actor Vijay's upcoming film Jana Nayagan by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has been postponed, according to sources. Originally scheduled to take place on Monday, the event was delayed due to the illness of a committee member. The CBFC will now convene a revising committee to re-examine the film before issuing its final certification. A CBFC board member will oversee the process, with a new set of advisory panel members joining the committee for the screening. The exact date for the rescheduled review has not yet been announced. The production house, KVN Productions, received notification of the postponement on Sunday. The delay follows complications in the certification process, which initially pushed back the film's original release date of January 9. Earlier, the CBFC had reviewed the film in December 2025 and recommended certain edits, which the makers implemented. However, the issue resurfaced when a member of the original evaluating committee filed a complaint alleging the film offended religious sentiments and failed to consult the armed forces before using their logos. In response, the CBFC chairperson referred the film to a revising committee for re-evaluation. In January, KVN Productions had also filed a petition with the Madras High Court challenging the CBFC's decision to send the film for a fresh review. Recently, the producers submitted a request to withdraw the petition from the court registry. Jana Nayagan features an ensemble cast including Mamitha Baiju, Bobby Deol, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Prakash Raj, Priyamani, Pooja Hegde, and Narain. The film's certification process has been marked by repeated delays and legal challenges, highlighting the complexities of navigating regulatory scrutiny in the film industry.#central_board_of_film_certification #kvn_productions #jana_nayagan #madras_high_court #bobby_deol