Case follows controversy over television debate on cleric Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar’s remarks about women in public life
KOCHI | SEPTEMBER 7, 2026
Kochi City Cyber Police have registered a case against two people following a complaint by television journalist and anchor Aparna Kurup, who alleged that she was subjected to threats and online harassment after a television debate concerning controversial remarks by Kerala Muslim cleric Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar.
The case was registered on Saturday at the Kochi City Cyber Police Station. The accused named in the complaint include Abdul Basil of Kozhikode, while the second person has not yet been identified, according to police-related reports.
What triggered the controversy?
The dispute follows a television discussion on remarks attributed to Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar concerning the participation of women in public spaces and platforms.
The comments generated significant political and social debate in Kerala, with criticism from several political leaders and women’s-rights advocates. The controversy also spread across social media.
Aparna Kurup, a senior coordinating editor of Malayalam news channel Big TV, participated in a programme discussing the controversy and criticised the remarks.
Following the broadcast, videos, messages and other material relating to the programme were circulated on social media.
What does the police case allege?
According to the FIR details reported by India Today, the complaint alleges that videos, photographs and messages containing what police describe as false information about the television discussion were circulated online.
The complaint further alleges that the material was intended to damage Kurup’s reputation and that threats of physical assault were made against her.
Police said the alleged online activity created fear and unrest and raised concerns about Kurup’s safety.
The case has been registered under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology Act, including provisions relating to public disorder, criminal intimidation, public mischief and transmission of obscene material electronically.
Police widen investigation
Investigators are reportedly examining social-media accounts and posts connected with the alleged threats.
Police are also looking into other individuals who may have issued threats against the journalist online. Officials have indicated that additional people could be included as accused if the investigation establishes their involvement.
Abdul Basil, who is associated with an Islamic organisation, is expected to be summoned for questioning as part of the investigation.
Earlier apology
The controversy surrounding the television discussion had already escalated before the police case.
According to The News Minute, both Big TV and Aparna Kurup issued an unconditional apology on September 1 concerning the introductory remarks made during the programme. Despite the apology, Kurup continued to face online attacks, including threats, according to the report.
The developments have renewed concerns among journalists and media organisations about online harassment and threats directed at journalists following contentious television debates.
Wider political controversy in Kerala
The police case comes against the backdrop of a broader political and social debate over Kanthapuram’s comments.
The remarks have drawn criticism from opposition leaders and sections of the ruling political establishment, while organisations associated with the cleric have defended or challenged the criticism of his statements. The controversy has touched on questions involving women’s participation in public life, religious interpretation, political alliances and freedom of expression.
Kanthapuram later called for restraint amid the controversy, according to reports.
The larger issue: online threats against journalists
The case has also brought renewed attention to the risks journalists can face when covering politically or socially sensitive subjects.
While criticism of a journalist’s views or reporting is part of legitimate public debate, threats of physical violence and targeted harassment can raise separate legal and public-safety concerns.
The investigation will now determine whether the alleged online posts and messages meet the legal threshold for the offences included in the FIR.
Republic Herald Legal Note
A case being registered does not establish guilt. The allegations against the accused remain subject to investigation and any subsequent judicial proceedings.
The police investigation will determine the authenticity and origin of the allegedly threatening material, the involvement of the named and unidentified persons, and whether the offences cited in the FIR are ultimately established.
The Republic Herald | Kerala Desk