Tension has gripped Tamil Nadu’s media circles after multiple journalists, many known for their criticism of the DMK government especially surrounding the Karur stampede issue, received bomb threats over the past week. The latest incidents involve journalist Mani and YouTuber Felix Gerald, both of whom reported receiving threats in close succession.
Journalist Mani received a bomb threat for the second time in two days. His residence, which had already been inspected by police yesterday, was once again visited by the bomb squad following another alert today. Authorities have not confirmed whether the threats were made through phone, email, or social media, but officials said investigations are underway to trace the source.
Journalist Mani receives a bomb threat for the second time in two days.
His residence was inspected yesterday, and now the bomb squad has visited again.
Over the past week, several journalists in Tamil Nadu have received similar bomb threats. pic.twitter.com/7EfA82blbl
— Shabbir Ahmed (@Ahmedshabbir20) October 9, 2025
Felix Gerald, who runs the RedPix YouTube channel, also stated that he had received a bomb threat and that the bomb squad was preparing to search his house.
Gerald had recently been arrested by the DMK government’s Cyber Crime Division over a video he uploaded about the Karur stampede during actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay’s campaign. The tragic incident on 28 September 2025 left 41 people dead and over 60 injured.
Police alleged that Gerald circulated false information about the event and included him among 25 individuals booked for sharing what authorities described as “provocative posts” capable of inciting unrest. He was later produced before the XI Metropolitan Magistrate Court, which granted him conditional bail on the same night after finding the police’s justification for extended custody unconvincing. The bail order restricted Gerald from publicly expressing opinions related to the incident.
Puthiya Thalaimurai office which had recently covered the TVK Karur stampede questioning the efficacy of the DMK government has also received bomb threat.
Kishore K Swamy, another harsh critics of the DMK also received bomb threats.
Both my parents touching 75. Suddenly early morning 3 cops land at my house suggesting there is a bomb threat , and then they leave. Imagine the state of mind of the senior citizens. What is the purpose of doing this ? I give almost 7 interviews everyday. Which means i need to…
— kishore k swamy 🇮🇳 (@sansbarrier) October 10, 2025
YouTuber Gabriel Devadoss who has also spoken against DMK said he received calls from police stations in Kodambakkam, Vadapalani, Saidapet, and Perumbakkam. Officers conducted a search while he and his family were away, inspecting the area outside his apartment premises.
Savukku Shankar, another harsh DMK critic also received bomb threats with police conducting searches at his residence.
Apart from journalists and YouTubers, cine personalities like Trisha, Nayanthara, Swarnamalya and TVK Vijay have all received bomb threats in the last few days.
The recent wave of bomb threats targeting journalists has raised concerns over press freedom and personal safety in the state. Law enforcement officials have yet to confirm whether the threats are connected or coordinated. Meanwhile, media associations have urged the government to ensure the protection of all journalists, regardless of their editorial stance toward those in power.
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