YouTuber Rahul Easwar has approached the Kerala High Court seeking the removal of videos containing allegedly derogatory remarks about Lord Ayyappa and Malikapurathamma. He has also demanded criminal proceedings against social activist Sunny M. Kapikad.

  • Rahul Easwar filed a petition in the Kerala High Court.
  • Allegations involve derogatory remarks against deities Ayyappa and Malikapurathamma.
  • The plea seeks removal of digital content and criminal registration against Sunny M. Kapikad.
  • The Court has issued notices to Meta and the accused.

In a significant legal move, YouTuber Rahul Easwar has approached the Kerala High Court seeking urgent directions to scrub the internet of content deemed offensive to religious sentiments. The petition targets videos allegedly featuring derogatory remarks made by social activist and writer Sunny M. Kapikad regarding the deities Lord Ayyappa and Malikapurathamma.

The petitioner has sought specific directives from the Kerala government, the police, and Meta to remove all video links, digital copies, and corresponding URLs from social media platforms. Easwar’s plea emphasizes the need for Meta and other digital giants to temporarily block or disable public access to the controversial content to prevent further escalation of religious tensions.

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Legal Implications and Charges

According to the petition, the remarks made by Mr. Kapikad constitute serious offenses under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and the Information Technology Act, 2000. Easwar contends that such statements are designed to promote disharmony between religious groups and make assertions that undermine national integration by outraging religious feelings deliberately.

The intersection of digital content and religious sanctity is creating a new frontier for judicial scrutiny in India.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this case highlights the growing legal responsibility of social media intermediaries in moderating content that touches upon sensitive religious sentiments. As digital platforms become primary sources of information, the legal framework surrounding 'hate speech' versus 'free speech' is being tested more rigorously than ever before.

Historical Background

The sanctity of the Sabarimala pilgrimage and the worship of Lord Ayyappa are deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Kerala. Historically, any perceived slight to these traditions has led to significant social and legal movements within the state, making this case highly sensitive to the regional socio-political climate.

Did You Know?: The Sabarimala temple is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India, attracting millions of devotees annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What specific action has Rahul Easwar requested from the court?
Answer: He has requested the removal of derogatory videos from social media and the registration of a criminal case against Sunny M. Kapikad.

Question 2: What was the High Court's initial response to the plea?
Answer: Justice G. Girish directed the State and police to respond by September 10, 2026, and issued notices to both Sunny Kapikad and Meta.