Categories: Legally Speaking

Jayalalithaa’s Death: Madras HC Issues Notices on Plea for CBI Probe

The Madras High Court has sought responses from the Central Government and Tamil Nadu government on plea seeking a CBI probe into the death of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa.

A division bench of Acting Chief Justice R Mahadevan and Justice Mohammed Shaffiq was hearing a plea filed by Advocate Ramkumar Adithyan.

Adithyan, in his plea stated that he was compelled to file it even 8 years after Jayalalithaa’s demise to uncover the truth about her death, which remains unrevealed. He submitted that press reports and medical bulletins did not accurately reflect Jayalalithaa’s health during her hospitalization, with many statements being false.

The petitioner further mentioned that he had sent representations requesting appropriate action against those who were acting in an extra-constitutional capacity during Jayalalithaa’s hospitalization, those responsible for withdrawing her Z-Plus security, and those who issued false statements and misled the public.

Adithyan contended that the entire treatment protocol was known only to high-profile dignitaries of Tamil Nadu. He therefore expressed concern that the state police might not conduct a fair investigation into the complicity of officials and dignitaries, potentially diluting or frustrating the truth and justice.

He argued that the CBI, being competent to investigate special crimes involving highly placed functionaries and ministers with authoritative powers, should handle the investigation. Adityan also noted that the Arumughaswamy Commission, which was appointed to inquire into the circumstances surrounding Jayalalithaa’s hospitalization and death, had recommended that the circumstances be thoroughly examined.

Having made representations without any action being taken, Adithyan approached the court seeking relief.