Kerala HC Quashes Proceedings Against Mollywood Actor Sreenath Bhasi For Verbally Abusing Interviewer Following Settlement

The Kerala High Court on Wednesday quashed the criminal proceedings that had been initiated against Malayalam film actor, Sreenath Bhasi, for using filthy language against a female interviewer, following a settlement between the parties.

Justice Kauser Edappagath, while passing the order, observed that, 

"The dispute in the above case is purely personal in nature. No public interest or harmony will be adversely affected by quashing the proceedings". 

The instant case refers to an incident which occurred on September 21st in an interview conducted by 'Bihind Woods' social media channel, during a promotional interview for the actor's latest film, at Crown Plaza. It is alleged that the actor had used foul language against the interviewer and the camera crew, after requesting the camera to be turned off. The actor had been arrested under sections 354 A (1) (IV), 509 and 294 B of the Indian Penal Code. He was later released on bail. 

In light of the fact that the de facto complainant did not wish to proceed with the case, the actor had filed the instant petition before the Court for quashing the proceedings against him.

The Court, while allowing the application, took noted that the the de facto complainant/2nd respondent, had averred in the petition as well as in the affidavit that the dispute between the parties had been settled, and that she did not wish to proceed with the case. 

Senior Advocate S. Sreekumar, Advocates Martin Jose, P. Prijith, Thomas P. Kuruvilla, R. Githesh, Ajay Ben Jose, Manjunath Menon, Sachin Jacob Ambat, Anna Linda V. J., and Harikrishnan S, appeared on behalf of the petitioner. 

The respondents were represented by Advocates E.B. Thajudeen, Rshad V.P., and Public Prosecutor Sangeetha Raj. 

Case Title: Mr. Sreenath Bhasi v. State of Kerala & Anr. 

Citation: 2022 LiveLaw (Ker) 521

Click Here To Read/Download The Order