The Karnataka High Court has stepped in to halt a police notice issued to Kannada YouTuber Samir MD, who was facing legal trouble over a video discussing a controversial 2012 rape and murder case.
The Bellary Police had summoned Samir on March 5, citing allegations that his commentary offended religious sentiments. However, the court found procedural lapses in the notice, particularly the failure to attach a copy of the first information report (FIR), and ordered a temporary stay. Justice M. Nagaprasanna also ruled that future notices must be sent via registered post rather than informal channels like WhatsApp.
During the hearing, Samir’s legal team argued that police attempted to arrest him on the night of March 5 but were thwarted by the intervention of his lawyers. The video at the center of the controversy, titled Dharmasthala Soujanya Case, examined the rape and murder of a 17-year-old student, the acquittal of the accused, and allegations of police mishandling. It also made veiled references to a high-profile religious figure accused of shielding those responsible.
Justice Nagaprasanna questioned the urgency with which the police acted, asking, “What is the mortal hurry? Because the YouTuber has projected someone influential?” The court noted that the case raised concerns about fundamental rights and acknowledged the YouTuber’s fear of arrest.
The next hearing is scheduled for March 12.
