Police in Sholingur have booked TVK MLA G Kapil and his brother, Dhananchezhiyan, for allegedly assaulting two journalists [1, 2].
The case highlights ongoing tensions between political figures and the press in Tamil Nadu, raising concerns about the safety of reporters covering local officials.
The incident occurred on the afternoon of July 28 [1, 2]. According to police reports, the assault took place at the Vanniyar Complex in Sholingur [1, 2]. The legal action follows a formal complaint filed by journalist T Aranganathan, who said he was among the victims of the attack [1].
Authorities confirmed that two journalists were assaulted during the encounter [2]. In response to the complaint, the Sholingur police registered a case against both G Kapil and his brother [1].
The pair faces charges under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. Specifically, they were booked under Sections 296(b), 115(2), and 351(2) [1]. These sections of the legal code address various forms of misconduct, and assault.
Local officials have not provided further details regarding the specific cause of the altercation. The investigation remains ongoing as police process the complaint filed by Aranganathan [1].
“Police in Sholingur have booked TVK MLA G Kapil and his brother, Dhananchezhiyan, for allegedly assaulting two journalists.”
The application of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, in this case reflects the transition to India's new criminal code. The booking of a sitting member of the legislative assembly for violence against the press underscores a volatile environment for journalism in the region, where legal protections for reporters are frequently tested by political influence.
