Tue Aug 05 18:59:59 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text, followed by a rewritten news article:

**Summary:**

The Kerala High Court has overturned criminal proceedings against a law student who was accused of disrespecting a Mahatma Gandhi statue on his college campus in 2023. The student allegedly placed sunglasses and a Christmas wreath on the statue and made a comment about Gandhi being “long dead,” actions that were recorded and shared, leading to a complaint and subsequent charges. The court, while acknowledging the act as immoral, ruled it not illegal in the absence of a specific law prohibiting such conduct. The court emphasized the moral duty of citizens to respect freedom fighters like Gandhi but ultimately found the prosecution unwarranted.

**News Article:**

**Kerala High Court Quashes Case Against Law Student for Gandhi Statue Incident**

**KOCHI -** The Kerala High Court on Tuesday overturned criminal proceedings against a law student who faced charges for allegedly disrespecting a statue of Mahatma Gandhi at his college in Aluva back in 2023. The student, who was not named, was accused of placing sunglasses and a Christmas wreath on the statue, accompanied by a remark stating “Gandhi is long dead.” The incident, captured on video and circulated among students, resulted in a formal complaint, leading to a criminal case, a five-day suspension, and a fine of ₹5,000.

Justice V.G. Arun, presiding over the case, stated that while the student’s actions could be considered immoral, they did not constitute an illegal act. The court emphasized that no specific law prohibited such behavior or prescribed punishment for it.

“Our transition from ‘native Indian subjects’ to ‘proud Indian citizens’ wouldn’t have been possible, but for the untiring and selfless crusade led by Mahatma Gandhi and other national leaders,” the ruling stated, quoting American historian Will Durant’s description of Gandhi as one of the most revered figures in Indian history. While acknowledging the moral obligation of every Indian citizen to respect freedom fighters, the court ultimately ruled in favor of the student’s petition to quash the case.

The original incident took place in 2023, creating widespread controversy within the college community. The ruling brings an end to the legal proceedings surrounding the incident.

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