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Synopsis

The Madras High Court on Thursday orally observed that certain YouTube channels prioritize subscriber growth over decency by disseminating offensive content. They have become a menace to the society, court said.

Justice K. Kumaresh Babu said it is high time for governmental intervention to curb such harmful activities.

Court was dealing with anticipatory bail petition filed by G. Felix Gerald of the RedPix YouTube channel. Gerald, along with 'Savukku' Shankar, faces charges under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act of 1988.

Court was informed that the petitioner had conducted an interview with 'Savukku' Shankar where Shankar made derogatory remarks against female police officers. The Additional Public Prosecutor (APP) asserted that it was the petitioner who 'facilitated' Shankar to make such statements. 

A case was registered against both by the Coimbatore cyber crime cell and Shankar was arrested. Court was told that though the petitioner has been summoned for an inquiry, he has not appeared yet. 

Further, in response to the petitioner's counsel mentioning Gerald's 25-year career as a journalist, the judge asserted that he should have been listed as the primary accused in the case. Court orally observed that it was the petitioner who had encouraged the interviewee to make derogatory remarks against women.

Court, then, adjourned the matter for a week.

Case Title: G Felix Gerald v State