Lawyer Gopalakrishnan, representing Savukku Shankar, criticizes the excessive use of Goondas Act in Tamil Nadu and expresses concerns about the state turning into a police state during a press meet in Coimbatore.
Coimbatore: Lawyer Gopalakrishnan, representing Savukku Shankar, held a press conference at the Coimbatore Integrated Court Complex, where he shared critical insights on the use of the Goondas Act in Tamil Nadu and expressed concerns about the state's law enforcement practices.
Gopalakrishnan stated that the second Goondas Act case against Savukku Shankar has been revoked, and the Supreme Court has ordered his release. He added that the Tamil Nadu government itself has withdrawn the Goondas Act imposed on Savukku Shankar. The lawyer highlighted a startling statistic, claiming that 51% of all Goondas Act cases filed in India are from Tamil Nadu alone, indicating what he believes to be a misuse of the law in the state.
He urged the Tamil Nadu government to focus on addressing the daily issues of the people rather than targeting those who express opinions on social media platforms. Gopalakrishnan emphasized the need to maintain Tamil Nadu as a peaceful state. He expressed concern over the current law enforcement practices, stating that even ordinary criminals are being arrested with excessive force, including breaking limbs and resorting to gunfire.
The lawyer clarified that the bail conditions for Savukku Shankar do not include any restrictions on giving interviews or speaking publicly. He argued that if the law is equal for all, action should be taken against anyone spreading slander, but currently, only a specific group seems to be targeted.
Gopalakrishnan raised alarm over the increasing frequency of police shootings, calling it a dangerous trend. He claimed that such numerous shootings and arrests are not seen even in states that have had widespread Naxalite presence, implying that Tamil Nadu's approach is disproportionate and concerning.