Thrissur: The police here have registered a case against YouTuber SR Dhanya, popularly known as Helen of Sparta, following alleged derogatory remarks about transwoman and model Deepthi Kalyani.

The complaint was filed by Deepthi with the Thrissur City Police Commissioner after a video featuring the remarks surfaced online. The cyber police subsequently registered a case against Dhanya, invoking six sections, including non-bailable provisions. Some of the charges carry a possible sentence of up to two years, according to reports.

Deepthi Kalyani files complaint

The case follows an online dispute between the two social media personalities. Deepthi approached the police after allegedly objectionable comments about her were made by Helen of Sparta.

The video at the centre of the controversy is no longer available on Dhanya's YouTube channel. Reports say the video has since been taken down.

Police have registered the case through their cyber crime unit. The exact details of the six sections have not been independently confirmed in the available reports, but the case includes provisions under which imprisonment of up to two years is possible.

Deepthi Kalyani is a familiar name among Malayalam social media audiences. She first gained wider attention after appearing as a transgender cover model for a leading lifestyle magazine and has since worked as a model, dancer and actor. She has also spoken publicly about her difficult childhood, family rejection and the struggles she faced while establishing herself.

Helen of Sparta's earlier drunk-driving case

The latest case comes weeks after Dhanya was booked in Kasaragod in connection with a drunk-driving incident.

In July, police reportedly spotted her car parked dangerously on National Highway 66 at Anangoor. When officers attempted to check the vehicle, the car allegedly drove away. Police later intercepted it at Bhagavathi Nagar in Mangalpady after a chase of more than 17 kilometres.

According to the police account, a breathalyser test recorded an alcohol level of 82 mg per 100 ml, above the legal limit of 30 mg per 100 ml. Dhanya was booked under provisions relating to rash driving, driving under the influence of alcohol and failure to comply with police directions.

Dhanya later acknowledged that she had consumed beer before driving and admitted that she should not have got behind the wheel. She also denied reports claiming that drugs such as MDMA had been found in her vehicle.

The Motor Vehicles Department subsequently suspended Dhanya's driving licence for three months. She was also directed to attend a three-day training programme conducted by the department.