SC upholds sentence against editor of ‘Latest’ for publishing obscene reports against Muslim League woman leader

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court of India has upheld the sentence against Aravindan Manikkoth, managing editor of the evening daily Latest, in a case involving the publication of a sexually suggestive and defamatory news report against a Muslim League woman leader. The case relates to a report published in 2013 against Hasina Tajudheen, who was then the chairperson of Kanhangad Municipality. The Hosdurg court had sentenced Aravindan to imprisonment and a fine. Aravindan had challenged the 2019 verdict, but his appeals were dismissed by the Kasaragod Additional Sessions Court and later by the Kerala High Court.

While considering his appeal against the high court judgment, the court had directed him to deposit the fine amount. However, as he failed to comply with this direction on two occasions, his appeal was dismissed. A bench headed by Justice Sundresh rejected the plea. The prosecution also informed the court that even after the conviction, Aravindan continued to publish obscene and defamatory reports against Hasina. The state government further stated that more than six similar cases have been registered against him.

Advocates K R Subhash Chandran and Anirudh K P appeared for the complainant Hasina Tajudheen, while Harshad V Hameed and Dileep Poolakkott represented the state government. Advocate Sreeram Parakkott appeared for the petitioner Aravindan before the Supreme Court.