The Madras High Court on Wednesday stayed the release and circulation of a book alleged to contain personal attacks on a sitting judge, holding that the publication raised serious concerns about the dignity of the judiciary.
The order came on a petition filed by advocate P. Naveenprasad against a book titled
“Thirupparankundran Affair: Is GRS a Judge or …”. The petitioner claimed the title and cover were “scandalous and derogatory” and specifically targeted Justice GR Swaminathan through mocking visuals and language.
Read also:- Bombay High Court restrains former franchisee from using Jawed Habib trademark after franchise expiry
A Bench of Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Srivastava and Justice Arul Murugan noted that while judgments can be criticised, personal attacks on judges cannot be justified as free speech.
“If anyone is aggrieved, the remedy lies in appeal, not in scandalising a judge,” the Chief Justice remarked orally during the hearing.
The Court also took note that the book was proposed to be sold at the upcoming Chennai Book Fair, making the matter urgent.
The High Court passed an interim order staying the release, sale, and circulation of the book, directed police to seize available copies, and initiated suo motu contempt proceedings against the publisher.
Authorities were also asked to ensure that the publication is not made available online until further orders.
