Thu Nov 07 16:21:58 UTC 2024: ## HMK Leader’s Son Summoned by Madras High Court for Threatening Journalist

**Chennai, November 7, 2024:** The Madras High Court has summoned A.S. Omkar Balaji, son of Hindu Makkal Katchi (HMK) leader K. Arjun Sampath, to appear on November 13 in connection with a case of alleged threats made against journalist Nakheeran R. Gopal.

Balaji, who is the youth wing leader of the HMK, had filed an anticipatory bail plea. Justice A.D. Jagadish Chandira, while hearing the plea, insisted on Balaji’s presence and also inquired about his willingness to apologize for the alleged threats. The judge asked Balaji’s counsel to seek instructions on this matter before the next hearing.

The case stems from a protest organized by HMK in Coimbatore on October 27, condemning those opposed to Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev’s Isha Foundation. During the protest, Balaji allegedly threatened Gopal, stating that he would be dragged to the streets like a dog, handcuffed, and imprisoned after the DMK loses power in the state. Balaji was also accused of threatening to cut off the journalist’s tongue.

The complaint was filed by A. Abdul Jaleel, an auto-rickshaw dealer and DMK member, who heard Balaji’s speech while going about his personal work. The government advocate argued against the anticipatory bail plea, highlighting the seriousness of the charges against Balaji.

The court’s decision to summon Balaji and seek an apology underscores the gravity of the alleged threats made against the journalist. The next hearing on November 13 will determine the fate of Balaji’s anticipatory bail application and shed light on the HMK leader’s son’s willingness to apologize for his alleged actions.

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