The Supreme Court on Tuesday brought closure to the long-standing dispute between Naam Tamilar Katchi coordinator Seeman and actor Vijayalakshmi, after both parties submitted affidavits expressing their willingness to end the matter.
The case, which was originally filed by Vijayalakshmi alleging defamatory remarks by Seeman, came up for hearing before a bench comprising Justices PV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan.
In his affidavit, Seeman offered an unconditional apology to Vijayalakshmi for the comments he had made against her. He stated that he sincerely regretted any pain or distress caused through his words or actions and withdrew all statements and allegations made against the actor. Seeman also assured the court that he would refrain from making any further comments about her in the media and would not attempt to contact her directly—any communication, if necessary, would happen only through their respective lawyers.
Vijayalakshmi, in her affidavit, acknowledged Seeman’s apology and said it helped restore her dignity. She added that she was prepared to withdraw the case in line with the Supreme Court’s earlier directions. However, she noted that she had been severely affected by Seeman’s actions, both emotionally and financially. Citing personal hardships, including the loss of her mother and the responsibility of caring for her disabled sister, she requested the court to direct Seeman to provide suitable compensation.
Seeman’s counsel, however, argued that Vijayalakshmi’s affidavit could not be accepted, as she, too, had made defamatory statements about Seeman but had not apologised for them.
Responding to the arguments, the judges observed that both parties had made allegations against each other and said, “If you (Vijayalakshmi) say you will withdraw the complaint, why should only Seeman apologise? The court’s view is that both sides must apologise.” The bench added that the matter had dragged on long enough and should be brought to a close.
Recording that both Seeman and Vijayalakshmi had filed affidavits expressing their desire to end the dispute and not pursue any further litigation, the Supreme Court accepted their submissions. Consequently, the court set aside the Madras High Court’s earlier order and quashed the case against Seeman.
Both parties assured the court that they would abide by the statements made in their affidavits, effectively bringing an amicable end to the Seeman–Vijayalakshmi dispute.
