The Kerala High Court on Friday (November 6) directed the police protect the life and properties of Big TV journalist Aparna Kurup, who allegedly received death threats and cyber attacks after anchoring a channel discussion relating to a public statement made by Islamic scholar Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musaliar on women's rights. [2026 LiveLaw (Ker) 218]

Justice Murali Purushothaman today was informed that pursuant to an earlier interim order passed by the Court, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Ernakulam South Police Station is affording protection to the petitioner.

The government pleader, on instructions, submitted that the SHO is willing to afford adequate protection to her life as well as her residential apartment, as and when required and that there is surveillance by the police near her residence.

The Court then observed:

"In the circumstances it will be open to the petitioner to alert the 4th respondent [SHO] in case of any threat or threat or intimidation from any person, and in such event, the 4th respondent shall afford necessary protection to the petitioner and her residence and, take all the necessary steps to avoid any law and order situation."

Kurup is a senior journalist working as Sr. Coordinating Editor with Big TV Channel. According to the plea, she anchored a channel discussion 'Big Dialogue' relating to Kanthapuram's statement on women's rights. Though the discussion was purely journalistic in nature, made in exercise of the freedom of press under Article 19(1)(a), she faced severe and vicious cyber attacks, it is stated.

It was pointed out that though she preferred a criminal complaint, the threats did not cease but got aggravated. She then approached the SHO with a representation for police protection.

Subsequently, she approached the High Court praying for police protection to her and her son's lives and property, including her residence. Further, a direction is sought to the City Police Commissioner to conduct a threat assessment and to take all necessary steps to ensure that no physical harm is caused to her. Additionally, she prays for a direction for effective investigation of the crime registered pursuant to her complaint.

After hearing the parties, the Court disposed of the plea directing the SHO concerned to give adequate police protection to the lives of her and her minor son and to avoid law and order issues.

Counsel for the petitioner: Mansoor B.H., Sakeena Beegum