Supreme Court Challenges Tamil Nadu Government Over Police Officer's Suspension

Supreme Court's Inquiry into Police Officer's Suspension

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court raised concerns regarding the Tamil Nadu government's actions and the Madras High Court's decision to suspend Additional Director General of Police HM Jayaram, who is implicated in the alleged kidnapping of a 17-year-old boy.

A panel comprising Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan was reviewing an anticipatory bail request submitted by Jayaram, challenging the High Court's directive for his arrest.

“He holds a senior position within the police force,” the bench remarked. “Such orders are both shocking and demoralizing.”

Justice Bhuyan expressed his astonishment at the High Court's ruling, stating, “In my 18 years as a judge, I was unaware that I possessed the authority to mandate an arrest.”

While Jayaram's attorney informed the Supreme Court that he had been formally detained, the state government contended that he had not been arrested but had merely participated in the investigation.

The case is set for further discussion on Thursday, with the state's legal representative instructed to clarify whether Jayaram's suspension would be lifted.

Jayaram was taken into custody on Monday, following the Madras High Court's order in a kidnapping case that also implicates Kilvaithinakuppam MLA Poovai M Jagan Moorthy.

This situation arose from a police report filed by a woman named Lakshmi, whose elder son married against her family's wishes. Concerned for their safety, the couple went into hiding. Allegedly, members of the woman's family, with assistance from hired individuals, kidnapped Lakshmi's younger son from their residence.

The 17-year-old was later discovered abandoned near a hotel, showing signs of injury. Investigators found that an official vehicle associated with Jayaram was reportedly involved in the abduction.

Additionally, the woman's family had sought assistance from MLA Moorthy, who is accused of participating in the kidnapping and obstructing police inquiries by rallying party supporters around his home.