Actor Vikram video case: Farm owner gets anticipatory bail in Lar gibbon case
A farm owner in Perundurai has been granted anticipatory bail in a case involving the illegal possession and delayed reporting of Lar gibbons. The case stems from a video featuring actor Vikram, which prompted a Forest Department inspection and subsequent legal action.
Why it matters
This case highlights the strict enforcement of wildlife protection laws regarding exotic species and the legal responsibilities of private owners.
Principal District Judge S. Sameena on Thursday (August 20, 2026) granted anticipatory bail to farm owner S.K. Keshavanathan of Perundurai in a case registered against him for failing to register three Lar gibbons within the stipulated period and for failing to report the death of another Lar gibbon to the Forest Department within the prescribed time. The court imposed a surety of ₹25,000 and directed Mr. Keshavanathan to sign at the Forest Department office for 15 days.
Mr. Keshavanathan is the owner of the Lar gibbons featured in a recent video involving actor Vikram. Following the video, the Forest Department inspected his farmhouse and conducted an inquiry. On August 14, the Erode Forest Division registered a case against him under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the rules governing the possession and registration of live animal species, for delayed registration and failure to report the death of a Lar gibbon.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in