Tamil Nadu’s Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) HM Jayaram has moved the Supreme Court to challenge his arrest ordered by the Madras High Court in a high-profile kidnapping case.
The top court has agreed to hear the matter on an urgent basis and has listed the case for Wednesday.
The Madras High Court’s order directing Jayaram’s arrest came while hearing an anticipatory bail plea filed by KV Kuppam MLA “Poovai” Jagan Moorthy, who is also named in the same case. In a strong statement, the court declared, “No public servant is above the law,” emphasizing the need for accountability at all levels of public service.
Justice P Velmurugan, who passed the directive, underscored the responsibility of public officials to act within the law and warned against the misuse of authority. “Public servants must answer to the people,” he said.
Shocking Allegation
The case is based on a complaint filed by a woman named Lakshmi, who alleged that her 18-year-old son was abducted after her elder son married a girl against the wishes of her family. The younger son was allegedly kidnapped and later dropped off near a hotel, in a vehicle reportedly belonging to ADGP Jayaram.
The involvement of the senior police officer’s official car has raised serious concerns about complicity at the highest levels. MLA Jagan Moorthy is accused of conspiring in the abduction, reportedly in retaliation for the inter-caste marriage.
Jayaram Arrested, Then Approaches SC
Following his arrest on Monday, Jayaram quickly moved the Supreme Court, arguing against the legality of the High Court’s arrest order. The case has now escalated into a significant legal battle, drawing attention to issues of power misuse, due process, and judicial oversight.
What To Expect Next
The Supreme Court’s verdict on Jayaram’s plea will be crucial in determining whether the Madras High Court’s tough stance is upheld or if the ADGP receives relief. The decision could also shape the legal precedent for handling allegations against high-ranking law enforcement officers in the future.
As the hearing unfolds, the case remains a litmus test for judicial resolve in tackling alleged abuse of power within the police ranks, while also putting the spotlight on political connections and accountability in Tamil Nadu’s law enforcement.
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