Popular YouTuber and political commentator Savukku Shankar has been released from Puzhal Central Prison in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu government lifted the preventive detention order against him under the Goondas Act, following the recommendation of an advisory committee set up to review such cases after a change in government. Shankar had faced arrest previously for alleged defamatory comments against the former DMK government and certain ministers.
His release came after he was granted conditional bail in earlier cases but was rearrested by a special police team from Andhra Pradesh for failing to appear in court. Subsequently, the Chennai Police, on orders from the city police commissioner, invoked the Goondas Act leading to his detention. However, the advisory committee’s review prompted the government to withdraw the detention order, resulting in Shankar’s freedom.
Speaking to the press post-release, Shankar shared political insights and thanked Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. He commended the recent Assembly election’s outcome in Tamil Nadu and urged the new government to heed the voters’ message. Shankar emphasized the importance of the government completing its full term and continuing welfare initiatives for the people. He credited the Chief Minister for expediting his release through swift intervention.
Shankar also criticized the previous DMK administration, accusing it of curbing press freedom and targeting journalists. He condemned the DMK for its treatment of journalists, labeling it as a severe suppressor of media freedom. Shankar highlighted the role of coalition governments in enhancing democratic processes by fostering accountability and media freedom through internal checks and balances.
