The Madras High Court reserved orders on pleas filed by the mother of YouTuber and journalist Savukku Shankar seeking directions regarding his medical treatment and challenging his alleged solitary confinement. The matter was heard by a Division Bench comprising Justice P. Velmurugan and Justice M. Jothiraman, which considered submissions made on behalf of Shankar’s mother and the State before reserving its decision.
Shankar had been arrested in connection with allegations under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges relating to extortion, intimidation, criminal conspiracy, neglect of public servant duties, and obscene acts. In the present proceedings, his mother approached the High Court seeking appropriate medical treatment for him and objecting to his continued solitary confinement. The plea raised concerns about his health condition and the adequacy of treatment available to him while in custody.
During the hearing, Senior Advocate V. Raghavachari, appearing for Shankar’s mother, contended that the medical board’s report on Shankar’s condition was insufficient and did not properly take into account his medical history and ongoing treatment. It was submitted that Shankar had cardiac issues and required specialized medical attention, which, according to the petitioner, was not adequately available within the prison system. The counsel argued that the present conditions of confinement and the alleged solitary confinement further aggravated concerns about his health and well-being.
The State, represented by the Additional Public Prosecutor, opposed the plea and submitted that adequate arrangements could be made to provide medical care if necessary. It was contended that Shankar’s medical condition did not warrant the reliefs sought and that he could be taken to a hospital for treatment if required. The State also referred to allegations regarding his conduct and the pendency of criminal proceedings against him.
The case has a background of earlier proceedings in which the High Court had granted interim bail to Shankar while imposing certain conditions. At that time, the court had directed the constitution of a medical board to examine his health and submit a report. Subsequently, the police had sought cancellation of the interim bail, alleging misuse of liberty. However, the court had earlier declined to cancel the interim bail and had imposed additional conditions while directing that his medical needs be addressed appropriately.
In the present hearing, the bench considered arguments relating to the adequacy of medical facilities, the findings of the medical board, and the legality of the conditions of confinement. The court heard detailed submissions from both sides before reserving its orders on the pleas. The decision on whether to grant directions for specialized medical treatment and to intervene in the issue of alleged solitary confinement will be delivered after consideration of the materials placed on record. Until the orders are pronounced, the matter remains pending before the Madras High Court.
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