No need to garland Boby Chemmanur; he was not jailed for freedom struggle: Rahul Easwar
Social activist Rahul Easwar has urged businessman Boby Chemmanur to respect the court’s decisions, following his refusal to come out of jail after being granted bail a day ago in a sexual harassment case filed by Malayalam actor Honey Rose.
Rahul’s comments came in a vlog shared on his YouTube channel, where he emphasised the importance of respecting judicial decisions.
Rahul expressed his happiness over Boby's release but cautioned him not to take any actions that could provoke the court. He praised the Kerala High Court for its balanced approach, especially after granting bail to Chemmanur despite facing strong criticism. “I am happy that Boby Chemmanur has been released from jail. However, I advise him not to provoke the court in any way. The High Court's judgment, delivered by Justice PV Kunjikrishnan, is fair and should be respected,” Rahul said.
Rahul acknowledged Boby's gesture of staying behind in jail to support fellow prisoners who couldn't afford bail, but warned against taking a stance that might antagonise the court. He stressed that while solidarity with the underprivileged is commendable, it should not lead to conflict with the judiciary. “Boby Chemmanur should not take a stand that provokes the court. The courts are the most reliable system in our country, and they must be respected at all times,” Rahul added.
No need for symbolic celebrations
Rahul also discouraged the All Kerala Men's Association (AKMA) from celebrating Boby’s release with garlands or similar symbolic gestures, which he felt could provoke unnecessary controversy. He emphasised that such gestures should only be reserved when people contribute to society, such as the occasion of charitable acts.
“There is no need for the men's organisation to garland Boby Chemmanur in a way that would provoke the court. Boby did not go to jail for a freedom struggle, but due to a mistake. He should be celebrated for encouraging blood donations or providing homes to people, not for actions that might provoke feminists and liberals or create unnecessary tension,” Rahul said.
Rahul concluded his vlog by urging male activism groups to focus on positive causes and avoid actions that may inadvertently spark controversy. He also reiterated the importance of respecting legal institutions and working toward social good without antagonising others.