Savukku Shankar is a former government employee who was dismissed from service over alleged misconduct. Over the past few years, strong criticism has emerged on social media alleging that he has, from time to time, expressed support for different political parties and that he speaks in favour of those who allegedly pay him. People who have closely followed his activities have continued to raise questions regarding these allegations.
He has also faced criticism for allegedly making personal remarks and accusations against not only political leaders but also government officials and police personnel, purportedly based on what he describes as “source information.” Some individuals have further alleged that he seeks money from people by threatening to publish either favourable or unfavourable reports about them. There have also been claims on social media that businesspeople, including industrialists and real-estate professionals, have faced such pressure. These allegations, however, require proper investigation and supporting evidence.
It has also been alleged that his social-media following has continued to grow because of the controversial statements and accusations he regularly publishes, leading some journalists to express concern over his activities. Social-media allegations have further claimed that certain individuals within the police force provide him with information for personal reasons. Some critics have also questioned whether the government gives importance to certain information published by him and subsequently makes administrative changes based on such reports.
The government should establish, through a proper investigation, whether the various allegations and complaints are genuine. If the allegation that government decisions are being influenced by individual social-media channels operating without formal journalistic accreditation is found to be true, it would raise important questions about democratic governance. Therefore, journalists expect the authorities to conduct a lawful and impartial inquiry into the individuals concerned and the information they publish, and to take appropriate action if any wrongdoing is established.
