RSS Leader T G Mohandas Taken Into Custody Over Remarks on Jantar Mantar Protests
The Thiruvananthapuram City Cyber Crime Police on Sunday taken Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader and right-wing political commentator T G Mohandas into custody from his residence in Kochi, Kerala. The police action is linked to controversial remarks he allegedly made in a YouTube video regarding the NEET paper leak protests held at Jantar Mantar in Delhi.
A team from the Thiruvananthapuram Cyber Police Station, accompanied by local police officials, reached Mohandas' residence at Koovappadam near Mattancherry on Sunday evening. Investigators collected details about his YouTube channel, named 'Pathrika', and seized digital devices allegedly used to create and upload the video. Following his detention, Mohandas was taken to a government hospital for a medical examination before being transported to Thiruvananthapuram for further questioning.
Details of the Controversial Remarks
The police action follows a formal complaint alleging that the videos uploaded on Mohandas' channel were intended to disturb public peace, spread fear, and create unrest. According to the police, the videos were uploaded and circulated on July 24 and 25, targeting those participating in the demonstrations at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.
In one video, Mohandas purportedly detailed how he would handle the protest if given charge, suggesting he would impose a curfew, issue three warnings, and then order firing. He allegedly stated that some people would die and others would be injured, but the situation would be brought under control within four hours.
In another video, Mohandas allegedly suggested withdrawing the police from the protest site. He purportedly stated, "Police should be withdrawn from the area, and it should be left to the protesters. Rapes and murders will happen. There will not be complaints about rape, because they like rape."
Political Reactions and Allegations
The police action has triggered sharp political reactions in Kerala. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strongly condemned the detention, calling the police action "discriminatory." BJP state general secretary S Suresh accused the Kerala government of using the arrest to divert public attention from its alleged failures in flood relief operations and ongoing protests in coastal areas.
Suresh also criticized the police for taking Mohandas into custody on a holiday. He alleged that while Mohandas' remarks were not welcome, the government was failing to act against individuals who had allegedly threatened Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming they continue to move freely under the protection of the state administration.
Meanwhile, opposition parties had previously questioned the delay in taking action after the case was registered last month. Commenting on the development, All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary K C Venugopal stated that the registration of an FIR must be followed by a proper investigation. He added that RSS members often behave as though they rule the entire country and can say anything, expressing confidence that the Kerala Police is capable of taking appropriate action.
