Sat Feb 14 15:28:32 UTC 2026: # Professor Fined for Defamatory Comments Against Child Welfare Advocate
The Story:
A retired professor, Arokiyanathan, from Pondicherry University has been fined ₹1 lakh by the Additional District Court for posting indecent and defamatory comments against Vidyaa Ramkumar, the former Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee. The case originated in 2022 when the Chief Judicial Magistrate initially sentenced Arokiyanathan to three months’ imprisonment and a fine of ₹2,000. The appeals court modified the sentence to one day of imprisonment and increased the fine substantially.
Key Points:
- The accused, Arokiyanathan, is a retired professor from Pondicherry University.
- The victim is Vidyaa Ramkumar, former Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee.
- The original sentence in 2022 was three months’ imprisonment and a fine of ₹2,000.
- The Additional District Court modified the sentence to one day of imprisonment and a fine of ₹1 lakh.
- ₹50,000 from the fine amount will be given as compensation to the victim under section 357 (1) of the Criminal Procedure Code.
- Failure to pay the fine will result in two months’ imprisonment.
Key Takeaways:
- The case highlights the legal consequences of online defamation and indecent behavior.
- The significant increase in the fine upon appeal demonstrates the seriousness with which the court viewed the offense.
- The ruling underscores the importance of protecting individuals, particularly those in positions of public service, from online harassment.
- The compensation awarded to the victim signifies a move towards providing tangible redress for the harm caused by defamatory statements.
First Piper 