Chennai: The Madras high court has expressed displeasure over filmmakers “corrupting the minds of the youth” by using vulgar words in songs and by projecting violence in films, instead of inculcating moral values.
Granting bail to a youth detained on charge of sexually harassing a 16-year old girl, Justice S.Vaidyanathan said “Media is a powerful teacher, whose teachings are never forgotten by people. Therefore, filmmakers should realise their responsibility to imbibe good thoughts in the minds of the youth, who are the pillars of the future society and should act upon to bring up a good society”.
It was submitted by the government advocate that the petitioner waylaid the victim accompanied by her mother and sang a film song (Kalyanam Thaan Kattiittu Odipolaama, Odipoyee Kalyanathaan Kattikilaama) besides pulling her hands. On a complaint, Manali police registered a case against him under sections 341 (punishment for wrongful restraint), 294(b) (sings, recites or utters any obscene song, ballad or words, in or near any public place) 506(i) (punishment for criminal intimidation) IPC and section 12 (punishment for sexual harassment) of Pocso Act. He was remanded to judicial custody on July 24.
Stating that the police foisted case against the youth, the petitioner’s counsel submitted that the youth had a love affair with the girl and he was innocent.
Justice S.Vaidyanathan said that considering the facts and circumstances, he was of the view that no custodial interrogation was required at this stage and therefore he was granting bail to the petitioner.
The judge directed him to execute a bond for Rs.10,000 with two sureties each for a like sum to the satisfaction of the judicial magistrate, Tiruvottriyur.
He should appear before police daily at 10.30 am and 5.00 pm, until further orders and shall not tamper with evidence or witness either during investigation or trial. The judge also directed the accused not to abscond either during investigation or trial.
