The ruling DMK, known for its strict enforcement of the law against its critics, has recently drawn criticism for its handling of YouTuber and food vlogger Mohamed Irfan. While the party has not hesitated to arrest ordinary citizens for legal violations, it now appears to be extending a special appeasement to Irfan by issuing him a show cause notice, demanding an explanation regarding a controversial video he shared. In the viral clip, Irfan is seen cutting the umbilical cord of his newborn in an operating theater, notably without wearing a full protective apron.
The DMK’s action highlights concerns that Irfan’s video may set a poor example for the public, potentially encouraging non-professionals to engage in medical procedures without proper training or safety measures. This situation raises questions about the balance between freedom of expression and the responsibility that comes with it, particularly in sensitive areas like healthcare.
The video, uploaded on his YouTube channel, quickly went viral, garnering 1.4 million views in just two days. With the video circulating widely on social media, J. Rajamoorthy, Director of Medical and Rural Health Services, announced on 21 October 2024, that show-cause notices would be sent to both Irfan and the Sholinganallur-based hospital where the delivery took place. Additionally, a report on the doctor who assisted in the birth will be forwarded to the Tamil Nadu Medical Council.
Dr. Rajamoorthy expressed concerns about the video, stating, “The operation theatre should remain sterile, but he brought in a camera to film. Only trained medical personnel are authorized to cut the umbilical cord immediately after birth.” He also mentioned that the hospital could face legal action under the Tamil Nadu Clinical Establishments Act.
Critics and political commentators suggest that YouTube influencers like Mohamed Irfan have previously played a role in bolstering the DMK’s ideological influence in the state, especially leading up to elections. As a result, many believe the DMK may be reluctant to take action against him. In the current situation, any action would need to be initiated by J. Rajamoorthy, the Director of Medical and Rural Health Services, who is also Tamil Nadu chief minister Stalin’s brother-in-law. This connection raises concerns that this case, like others before it, may ultimately fizzle out without meaningful consequences.
Irfan’s History Of Controversies
Mohamed Irfan’s car was involved in a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a 55-year-old woman who was crossing the road near Potheri in Chennai. While there were unconfirmed reports suggesting that Irfan was driving the car, authorities arrested 34-year-old Mohammed Azarudheen from Sithalapakam for the incident. The arrest was notably delayed, and the investigation began only later.
Irfan also faced scrutiny for disclosing the sex of his unborn child following a prenatal test conducted abroad, which violated the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act. When this issue gained attention, Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma. Subramanian stated that they had sought an explanation and issued a show cause notice, while consulting experts about the applicability of the law in this context. Experts contend that Indian laws can apply to citizens regardless of their location. Despite the serious nature of the violation, it took the DMK several months to respond.
In addition, while other YouTube influencers faced fines for not wearing helmets or seatbelts, Irfan was spotted riding a motorcycle without a helmet and without number plates. He was only issued a show cause notice and a nominal fine of ₹1,500.
Now, Irfan has shared yet another controversial video, this time showing himself in an operating theater cutting the umbilical cord of his newborn. This pattern suggests that his actions are driven by a quest for fame, as he seemingly faces minimal repercussions for his repeated violations.
It is noteworthy to mention that Irfan shares a close relation with the DMK scion. He had done a public relations video with DMK scion and Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin back in November 2022. In the video Irfan asks Udhayanidhi Stalin “You’ve become my friend now right? You’re my friend right? Give your hand bro. (shakes hand). From now on, we’re friends. Like in the film OKOK (Oru Kal Oru Kannadi starring Udhayanidhi Stalin), if I get caught by police and call you, will you help me?”
The question remains: will the DMK finally take significant action against him this time? Will he again be let go because of his close relations with the DMK?
(With inputs from The Hindu)
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