Today, the Kerala High Court issued an interim protection order in favor of Mohiniyattam performer Kalamandalam Sathyabhama. This comes in response to allegations of making casteist remarks against fellow artist Dr. RLV Ramakrishnan.

“The Government Pleader seeks time to get instructions. The petitioner shall not be arrested till the next posting date.” Ordered Justice K Babu while posting the matter to May 27, 2024 (Monday).

Sathyabhama allegedly made derogatory comments regarding the appearance and skin tone of an individual belonging to the Scheduled Caste community, without explicitly mentioning his name, during an interview that gained traction on YouTube. Consequently, a complaint was filed against Sathyabhama under Sections 3(1)(r) of the Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act at the Cantonment Police Station in Thiruvananthapuram district.

The Special Court for Trial of Offences under the SC/ST Act in Nedumangad dismissed Sathyabhama's anticipatory bail application, asserting that a prima facie case had been established.

Sathyabhama's counsel, Advocate B A Aloor, contended that apart from Section 3(1)(r) of the SC/ST (POA) Act, no other offenses under the Indian Penal Code were alleged. It was argued that Sathyabhama's statements in the interview pertained to an unspecified artist, with no mention of any individual by name.

Furthermore, it was argued that Sathyabhama voiced her concerns about declining professional standards within the art community and offered personal opinions aimed at enhancing the field of art. Additionally, it was submitted that other individuals accused of uploading the video on YouTube had been granted bail by the court. The argument emphasized the perceived threat of arrest and requested interim protection for Sathyabhama.

The Court had enquired whether there was any to arrest Sathybhama since the proceedings were now pending before the Court.

The Court thus passed an order granting interim protection till the next posting date.