The Kerala High Court has intervened to provide police protection to Aparna Kurup, a journalist with the Malayalam news channel Big TV, following threats she received after moderating a debate on controversial remarks by Sunni Muslim scholar Kanthapuram AP Aboobacker Musaliar. The court’s directive came in response to a petition filed by Kurup, who sought safety assurances due to the backlash following the aired debate.
High Court’s Protective Measures
In the case titled Aparna Kurup v State of Kerala & ors, Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas mandated the Station House Officer (SHO) of the Ernakulam Town South Police Station to ensure the safety of Kurup and her home. The court explicitly instructed, “There will be a direction to the 4th respondent (police) to afford adequate protection to the petitioner’s (Aparna Kurup) life as well as her residential apartment.” This measure aims to maintain law and order and prevent any disturbances at her residence.
Controversial Remarks and Public Backlash
The controversy began when Kanthapuram, during a meeting in Kochi, advocated for women to stay at home and refrain from sharing public stages with men. His comments were in support of a circular from the Samastha Kerala Jamiyyathul Ulama, which suggested limiting women’s interactions with unrelated men in public settings. The remarks ignited significant debate, leading Kurup to host a segment titled ‘Big Dialogue’ on Big TV to discuss these issues.
Cyber Attacks and Legal Recourse
Following the broadcast, Kurup reported being the target of a coordinated cyber attack. She filed a complaint with the Kochi Cyber Crime Police Station on September 5, which led to a formal investigation. Despite this, threats persisted, prompting her to seek further legal protection. In her plea, she detailed the severity of the cyber harassment, describing “obscene abuses, threats to life, threats to rape and kill, and calls for physical assault” she faced across social media platforms. Disturbingly, her personal information, including her photo and home address, was circulated online alongside calls for protests at her residence.
Judicial Response and Ongoing Proceedings
The High Court’s interim order for police protection is a crucial step in ensuring Kurup’s safety. The court has scheduled further proceedings on this matter for October 26, 2026. Kurup’s legal team, comprising advocates Mansoor BH and Sakeena Beegum, continues to push for a thorough investigation into the cyber threats and a comprehensive assessment of the ongoing risks she faces.
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This case underscores the challenges journalists may confront when engaging in public discourse on sensitive topics, highlighting the critical need for legal protections to support freedom of speech and safeguard personal security.
