GEORGE TOWN – The Penang High Court today issued a gag order against activist Arun Dorasamy in relation to the T. Nhaveen murder trial.
Justice Mohd Radzi Abdul Hamid, after hearing evidence from both parties, said he came to the conclusion that every statement made by Arun, whether on social media or in public, is affecting the trial.
Given this, Arun is prohibited from publishing posts on social media or via any other medium, and also from speaking, about matters related to the case, so as to prevent the possibility of the impression being made that the court proceedings are tainted by misconduct involving police, public prosecutors and witnesses.
“If it fails, it will be an insult to the court,” said Radzi.
He said the court is aware of Arun’s right to speak as a citizen, but this must be balanced.
“Every statement must have an element of responsibility. This is an ongoing trial, you cannot make a prejudgment.
“However, the court will not block any communications from you to police and the prosecution. I hope you understand and respect the court.”
On June 18, the prosecution filed a gag order against Arun, who is accused of criticising its credibility on social media and has claimed to have fresh evidence.
The activist is represented by lawyer Arun Ganesh Boopalan. The proceedings were observed by Bar Council representative Sukhindarpal Singh.
The prosecution is led by state prosecution director Datuk Khairul Anuar Abdul Halim, and also comprises deputy public prosecutors Mohd Amril Johari, Yazid Mustaqim Roslan and Noor Azura Zulkiflee.
The court is expected to resume with testimony from main witness T. Previin at 2.30pm today.
Nhaveen, 17, died of head injuries after he was allegedly assaulted by a group of fellow students in 2017. – The Vibes, August 5, 2021
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