The police on Wednesday arrested N. Rangarajan, 49, of Vadakku Vasal in Srirangam for posting unfounded allegations on social media with the intention of bringing disrepute to Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam and those associated with it.
He was later released on bail.
Acting on a complaint lodged by P. Jayaraman, Joint Commissioner of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments and Executive Officer of the temple, the Srirangam police booked Mr. Rangarajan under Sections 500 (defaming others) and 505 (circulating statements with ulterior motive) of the Indian Penal Code and Section 45 of the Information and Technology Act.
Mr. Rangarajan was produced before Judicial Magistrate-III, but was enlarged on bail.
In his complaint, Mr. Jayaraman alleged that Mr. Rangarajan had been posting unfounded and baseless allegations against those managing the temple for long. The message posted by him on October 26 on his Facebook page had brought disrepute to the temple and devotees.
Mr. Rangarajan had earlier filed a petition before the Madras High Court, alleging theft of ancient idols, precious artefacts, giant doors, stone lamps and other articles from the temple. The court had ordered a probe by the Idol Wing CID.
