Kochi: The High Court has observed that power minister M.M. Mani’s speech is serious and sought views of the state government and the police chief on his alleged comments against women.

“What’s happening in the state?” the division bench asked while considering a petition for a directive to the state police chief to probe Mr Mani’s alleged use of abusive language against women and his threatening of civil servants.

“Has the state police chief not seen this,” the court queried, while disposing of the petition filed by Mr George Vattukulam of Thrissur.

The court directed Mr Vattukulam to file a complaint at the police station concerned. The petitioner, however, contended that no action would be taken on his complaint because Mr Mani was a minister.

The state government submitted that on examination, the speech CD did not reveal any remark outraging the modesty of women.

The minister’s remarks were against media persons. To which the court said that they are also human beings and have the very same fundamental rights.

The petitioner alleged that Mr Mani had outraged the modesty and used abusive language against more than 10,000 women, who participated in the historic struggle.

Mr Mani had earlier insulted a woman principal at Painavu Government Polytechnic by using abusive language but later apologised, the petition said.

The Minister was a habitual offender and regularly used abusive language and lewd remarks against women. The petitioner also accused Mr Mani of using abusive language against efficient civil service officers.