Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 19 (NationPress) V.D. Satheesan, the Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, has officially reached out to Meta Platforms Inc., requesting the social media giant to refrain from removing links to a satirical song associated with the alleged gold theft parody at the Sabarimala temple. He cautioned that any removal executed without a court order would constitute an unconstitutional limitation on free speech.

In his correspondence, Satheesan referenced reports indicating that the Kerala Police had requested various social media platforms, including those managed by Meta, to eliminate links to the song titled “Pottiye Kettiye”. This song has gained traction online in connection with the disputed disappearance of gold from the Sabarimala temple.

Additionally, the Opposition leader pointed out that the Thiruvananthapuram Cyber Police have initiated a case regarding the song's creation and dissemination.

Nevertheless, he stressed that, at present, there exists no judicial ruling, court mandate, or statutory directive that compels the removal of this content.

Referencing consistent decisions from the Supreme Court, Satheesan asserted that the right to freedom of speech and expression cannot be restricted unless a tangible and legally established breach of law is proven.

In a democracy governed by law, he contended, any limitations on speech must strictly comply with due process.

Satheesan underscored that parody and satire are recognized forms of artistic expression protected under the Constitution, only subject to reasonable constraints imposed through lawful and judicially sanctioned means.

He warned that administrative or police requests, absent a competent court order, should not serve as grounds for content removal.

Such actions, he cautioned, could lead to prior restraint, establish a detrimental precedent for censorship, and inflict irreparable damage on content creators.

Permitting law enforcement agencies to achieve takedowns without judicial oversight would undermine constitutional protections and suppress legitimate expression, as highlighted in his letter.

In this context, Satheesan urged Meta to avoid removing or disabling access to links related to the song unless a competent court of law issues a clear and specific directive.

Alternatively, he suggested that Meta could only act if, following an independent evaluation, the content is determined to be in clear violation of its own Community Standards.

This letter emerges amidst escalating political controversy regarding the alleged Sabarimala gold theft and growing concerns over the misuse of police authority to suppress online critique and satire in Kerala.