Television actor T Ravichandran has moved the Madras High Court with a plea for anticipatory bail after being booked by the Central Crime Branch (CCB) in connection with an alleged death threat issued to actor-politician Kamal Haasan.
The controversy began earlier this month after Kamal Haasan, who represents Tamil Nadu in the Rajya Sabha and is the founder of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), spoke at the 15th anniversary of actor Suriya’s Agaram Foundation. At the event, Haasan described education as a means to “break the shackles of Sanatana Dharma.”
Ravichandran later reacted to Kamal Haasan’s remarks during a YouTube interview, issuing a provocative statement. He warned that he would “slit the MP’s throat” if such comments continued, a remark that triggered widespread criticism.
Following the uproar, MNM vice-president and retired IPS officer AG Mourya lodged a formal complaint with the Greater Chennai Police Commissioner on August 10. The case was subsequently handed over to the CCB, which registered an FIR against the television actor.
Appearing before Justice G Jayachandran, the petitioner argued that his statement was “unintentional” and not meant as a real threat. He further submitted that he comes from a “decent family” and is willing to abide by any conditions the court may impose while granting him relief.
The court, after hearing his plea on Monday, directed a government advocate to obtain instructions from the CCB and adjourned the matter to Wednesday, August 20.
