Kochi: The Kerala High Court has directed that adequate police protection be provided to journalist Aparna Kurup and her minor son, who have complained of facing death threats and severe cyber-attacks following a television discussion on remarks made by Kanthapuram A.P. Abubakker Musliyar relating to women’s rights. The court instructed the Ernakulam South Police Station House Officer to ensure the security of their lives as well as the apartment where they reside. Justice Murali Purushothaman issued this order on November 8.
The High Court’s intervention came on a petition filed by Aparna Kurup, Senior Coordinating Editor at Big TV channel. The petition stated that she became the target of organized cyber harassment and grave death threats after hosting the televised program “Big Dialogue” that aired a discussion centered on the controversial comments made by Kanthapuram A.P. Abubakker Musliyar about women’s rights. Aparna alleged that the threats and attacks were in retaliation for exercising her constitutional rights to freedom of expression and media freedom guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.
She emphasized that organizing and leading a public debate on a widely discussed issue as a journalist should not expose her to personal attacks and threats, which have seriously endangered her safety. The petition detailed that abusive remarks and threats proliferated extensively over social media following the television discussion. Considering the nature and intensity of the threats, Aparna expressed grave concern not only for her own life but also for the safety of her minor son residing with her.
Although criminal complaints were previously filed regarding these incidents, the harassment and threats did not cease, and in fact increased in severity, according to the petition. Aparna also submitted an application to the concerned Station House Officer requesting police protection. However, due to the inadequate response, she approached the High Court seeking its intervention to ensure proper security measures for herself and her son.
The primary demand in the petition was for the provision of adequate police protection to safeguard the lives and property of both Aparna and her minor son. It also requested that the City Police Commissioner assess the seriousness of the threats and the prevailing security circumstances. Moreover, the petition sought necessary directives to ensure effective investigation into the registered criminal case related to these threats.
During the petition hearing, the Government Pleader informed the court that police protection had already been extended to Aparna Kurup pursuant to the Court’s earlier interim order. The government further stated that the police had implemented surveillance near her residence and were prepared to provide additional security if required.
The Court recorded the government’s statement and clarified that if Aparna receives any further threats or intimidation from any individual in the future, she could directly approach the Station House Officer concerned. The police were also directed to provide immediate protection based on the threat’s nature and security needs.
The Court ordered adequate security for Aparna, her minor son, and their residence. It also mandated that the police take necessary preventive measures to avoid any law and order disruptions connected with the threats. The Court emphasized the responsibility of the relevant police officers to act lawfully and effectively in situations involving heightened security risks.
At the same time, the Court noted that it had not rendered any final verdict on the allegations of cyber-attacks or death threats raised in the petition. The directives on protection were issued solely based on the need to secure the petitioner’s safety and taking into account the police’s actions and government’s submissions.
After considering the arguments from both parties along with the government’s explanations, Justice Murali Purushothaman disposed of the petition by directing that Aparna Kurup and her son be provided with all necessary police protection and that appropriate steps be taken to prevent any law and order issues. Advocates Mansoor B.H. and Sakeena Begum appeared on behalf of the petitioner.
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Original Malayalam report: Malayalam Daily News
