DMK Functionary Sivaji Krishnamoorthy Sentenced to Three Years in 2023 Remarks Against Governor
Chennai, Feb 17, KNT: A Chennai court on Tuesday sentenced DMK functionary Sivaji Krishnamoorthy to three years of imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 20,000 for his derogatory remarks made in 2023 against Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi and other political leaders.
The judgment was delivered by the Egmore Metropolitan Magistrate Court, which found him guilty under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code. The case pertained to controversial comments targeting Governor Ravi, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, former minister D Jayakumar, BJP state president K Annamalai and BJP leader Khushbu Sundar.
Krishnamoorthy had made the remarks after the Governor allegedly skipped portions of a government-approved speech during a session of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly in 2023. His comments, including statements directed at the Governor, sparked widespread criticism and led to legal proceedings.
A video of his speech had circulated widely on social media at the time, drawing condemnation from various quarters, including leaders from multiple political parties. The DMK had initially suspended him following the controversy but later reinstated him, after which he continued to participate in public meetings.
During the sentencing hearing, the court heard arguments on the quantum of punishment. Krishnamoorthy sought leniency and requested the minimum sentence. The court, however, awarded a three-year term along with the monetary penalty.
Reacting to the verdict, BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan criticised the remarks and said the incident reflected poorly on political discourse.
Further legal remedies, if any, are awaited. [KNT]
