The Madras High Court has declined to grant bail to prominent YouTube vlogger and motorcyclist, TTF Vasan, also known as Vauikunthavasan, following an incident related to a bike stunt that went wrong on the Chennai-Vellor National Highway.
Justice CV Karthikeyan, while dismissing Vasan’s bail plea, remarked,
“Quite fortunately for others and unfortunately for the petitioner, he alone had suffered an injury during the incident. It is a lesson for him. Let him continue to be in custody.”
The judge emphasized that Vasan’s time in custody would serve as a valuable lesson.
The incident in question occurred on September 17, when Vasan and his friends were returning from a trip to Maharashtra. Vasan lost control of his motorcycle while attempting a wheelie, resulting in an accident. Although he sustained minor injuries, his motorcycle was severely damaged. Passers-by assisted him, and he was subsequently taken to a private hospital for treatment.
Following the accident, Vasan was charged under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 279 (Rash driving or riding on a public way), 336 (Act endangering life or personal safety of others), and 308 (Attempt to commit culpable homicide). He also faced charges under section 184 (Dangerous Driving) and other provisions of the Motor Vehicle Act. After a medical examination at the Government General Hospital, he was presented before a court, which ordered his remand in judicial custody for 15 days, lasting until October 3.
The State government, during the proceedings, highlighted Vasan’s significant social media presence. Hosting a YouTube channel named Twin Throttlers, Vasan boasts around 4.5 million followers. The Additional Public Prosecutor argued that such a vast following could influence young individuals, leading them to emulate dangerous stunts and coerce their parents into buying expensive motorcycles. This, in turn, could endanger their lives and those of other road users.
After the Kanchipuram Sessions Court denied his bail petition on September 26, Vasan approached the Madras High Court seeking relief.
