Madras HC clears decks for Mangalsutra removal event

April 14, 2015 00:33

Holding that preserving the rights guaranteed under the Constitution, including freedom of expression, was its priority, the Madras High Court tonight cleared the decks for controversial 'Mangalsutra removal and beef banquet' to be held in Chennai on Tuesday by Dravidar Kazhagam.

"I am only concerned about freedom of expression and Article 19 of the Constitution and hence hearing the case at this hour. If someone had approached the court seeking permission to hold an event in praise of Nathuram Godse or to abuse Gandhi, I will permit," Justice D Hari Paranthaman said.

The event had been banned by the city police and DK chief K Veeramani was booked on various charges, including promoting

enmity on grounds of religion.

Strongly opposed by Hindu outfits, the event was announced by DK after a Tamil news TV channel had last month cancelled a programme "Thaali (Mangalsutra) a boon or bane", following protest from Hindu Munnani, a Sangh Parivar outfit.

"Beef banquet" was announced as a mark of DK's opposition to the idea of banning cow slaughter, beef-eating and a related recent ban in Maharashtra.

Justice Paranthaman made the remarks while allowing a petition by DK, apart from allowing it to conduct programmes to be celebrated tomorrow in connection with the 125th birth anniversary celebrations of B R Ambedkhar peacefully.

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