Pathanamthitta, Kerala: A YouTuber has been arrested for a second time after allegedly publishing fresh defamatory content targeting a Congress leader, despite being released on bail in an earlier case involving similar accusations.
According to police officials, Rajan Joseph was taken into custody by the Adoor Police on Thursday night after investigators found that new videos allegedly targeting Pathanamthitta district panchayat member Sreena Devi Kunjamma had been uploaded and circulated through a YouTube channel.
Fresh Case Registered Following New Video Upload
Police said Joseph had previously been arrested in Kochi last week in connection with allegations of posting defamatory content against Kunjamma. He was subsequently granted bail by the court.
As part of the bail conditions, authorities reportedly instructed him not to engage in similar activities involving the complainant while the case remained under investigation.
However, investigators allege that a new video targeting the Congress leader was uploaded and shared on the same day he was released from custody.
Following the discovery of the video, police registered a fresh case and launched a new investigation.
Arrest Made in Kochi
Officials confirmed that Joseph was arrested from Kochi on Thursday and later brought to the Adoor Police Station for further legal proceedings.
A second individual identified as Sibi, who allegedly appeared in the disputed video, has also been named in the case.
Police said efforts are underway to locate and apprehend the co-accused.
Complaint by District Panchayat Member
Sreena Devi Kunjamma, who currently serves as a member of the Pathanamthitta District Panchayat, alleged that she has been repeatedly targeted through online content for an extended period.
According to her complaint, more than 20 videos containing allegedly defamatory remarks have been published against her over the years.
She further claimed that the content dated back to her political career before joining the Congress party and continued after her transition from the Communist Party of India (CPI) to Congress.
Political Background
Kunjamma was previously associated with the CPI before joining the Indian National Congress last year.
She later contested and won a seat in the Pathanamthitta District Panchayat during local body elections.
The allegations have drawn attention to the growing concerns surrounding online harassment, political targeting, and the legal responsibilities of content creators operating on digital platforms.
Investigation Continues
Police officials stated that the investigation remains ongoing and that further action will depend on evidence gathered during the inquiry.
Authorities are also examining the circulation of the videos and whether any additional individuals were involved in creating, publishing, or promoting the disputed content.
The case highlights the increasing scrutiny of social media activity and the legal consequences that can arise when online content is alleged to violate defamation laws or court-imposed conditions.
More details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses and the accused are presented before the court.
