Rapper’s arrest sparks debate about caste bias in law enforcement
Hyphen Web Desk
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The arrest of Malayalam rapper Vedan, whose politically charged lyrics have garnered a significant following, for the possession of a tiger's tooth, has ignited debate about the lopsided enforcement of wildlife protection laws and their application,
Vedan was initially arrested on 28 April 2025 in Kochi after authorities discovered approximately six grams of hybrid cannabis in a flat he was occupying with eight others. During the subsequent search, officials also found a pendant on his chain believed to contain a tiger’s tooth, prompting the Forest Department to initiate legal proceedings under the Wildlife Protection Act.
Vedan, born Hirandas Murali in Thrissur, Kerala, rose to prominence in 2020 with his debut music video "Voice of the Voiceless," which addressed caste-based discrimination. His later works, including collaborations on film soundtracks, continued to explore themes of social justice. The rapper has claimed that the pendant was gifted to him by fans in Tamil Nadu asserting that he was unaware of its origin.
The Forest Department's involvement escalated the situation, as possession of wildlife-derived items such as tiger teeth is a non-bailable offence under Indian law. Officials from Kodanad visited the Hill Palace Police Station in Thrippunithura to verify the authenticity of the pendant. If confirmed to be from a tiger, Vedan could face significant legal consequences.
Vedan, born Hirandas Murali in Thrissur, Kerala, rose to prominence in 2020 with his debut music video "Voice of the Voiceless," which addressed caste-based discrimination. His later works, including collaborations on film soundtracks, continued to explore themes of social justice. The rapper has claimed that the pendant was gifted to him by fans in Tamil Nadu asserting that he was unaware of its origin.
The Forest Department's involvement escalated the situation, as possession of wildlife-derived items such as tiger teeth is a non-bailable offence under Indian law. Officials from Kodanad visited the Hill Palace Police Station in Thrippunithura to verify the authenticity of the pendant. If confirmed to be from a tiger, Vedan could face significant legal consequences.
The Forest Department has since confirmed that the pendant contained a tiger tooth following scientific examination at a laboratory in Hyderabad. He has been slapped with sections related to hunting and illicit possession of wildlife articles.
Lawyer and activist Harish Vasudevan criticised the authorities for what he perceives as selective enforcement, drawing comparisons to a past incident involving actor Mohanlal. In that case, ivory tusks were reportedly found at the actor's residence, but no legal action was taken. Vasudevan questioned the disparity, asking why Vedan faces potential imprisonment for a single pendant while others have avoided prosecution for more substantial violations.
Supporters of Vedan argue that his arrest is part of a pattern of targeting artists who challenge societal norms and hierarchies. They contend that the media and law enforcement are disproportionately focusing on individuals from marginalised communities, using sensational headlines and stringent legal measures to suppress dissenting voices.
Lawyer and activist Harish Vasudevan criticised the authorities for what he perceives as selective enforcement, drawing comparisons to a past incident involving actor Mohanlal. In that case, ivory tusks were reportedly found at the actor's residence, but no legal action was taken. Vasudevan questioned the disparity, asking why Vedan faces potential imprisonment for a single pendant while others have avoided prosecution for more substantial violations.
Supporters of Vedan argue that his arrest is part of a pattern of targeting artists who challenge societal norms and hierarchies. They contend that the media and law enforcement are disproportionately focusing on individuals from marginalised communities, using sensational headlines and stringent legal measures to suppress dissenting voices.
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