Spoke only a 'historic truth': Haasan on "first extremist a

Actor-turned politician Kamal Haasan Wednesday said he only spoke a 'historic truth' after his remark that free India's first extremist was a Hindu, a reference to Mahatma Gandhi assassin Nathuram Godse, triggered a huge controversy.

Haasan moved an anticipatory bail petition before the madras high Court bench here after it refused to entertain his earlier petition, seeking quashing of an FIR against him.

The FIR against Haasan, founder of new political outfit Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), was registered by Aravakurichi police Tuesday under Sections 153A and 295A of the Indian Penal Code, which deal with 'outraging religious feelings' and 'promoting enmity between different groups' respectively.

The MNM also filed complaints with police in Chennai and Tiruchirappalli against Milk and Dairy Development Minister KT Rajendira Bhalaji, who said Haasan's tongue should be cut off for saying that free India's "first extremist was a Hindu".

The party also claimed that Haasan's comments had been taken "completely out of context."
The MNM leader alleged that his speech was edited selectively and took a dig at his detractors, saying the charges levelled against him "apply to my media friends also."
Meanwhile, MNM Vice President R Mahendran said his party chief's Aravakurichi speech "has been taken completely out of context with a malafide intent and view to promote enmity among people and for the ulterior benefits of such groups."