S.SEKARAN Vs. CHIEF SECRETARY

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Claiming himself to be a press reporter, petitioner has sought for a Writ of Mandamus directing the Chief Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu and Home Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu, respondents 1 and 2 respectively, to consider the representation of the petitioner dated 26.12.2018 and to direct them to follow due process of law, against erring officials.

(2.) Supporting the prayer sought for, petitioner has contended that in December, 2018, the Hon'ble Law Minister, Government of Tamil Nadu, has made a press statement that the Government have permitted retirement of Mr.A.G.Ponn Manickavel, irrespective of pending CB-CID enquiry, based on the High Court order.

(3.) Petitioner has contended that he had verified the authenticity of the statement made by the Hon'ble Law Minister, but, to his shock and surprise, there is no such High Court order allowing the said Police Officer to retire, pending enquiry. According to the petitioner, action of the Government relieving a dishonest officer is barred by law and is an illegal precedent by the Government of Tamil Nadu. The petitioner has averred that retirement of such officers would facilitate errant officials who indulge in corruption and other illegal activities and subsequently enjoy a peaceful retirement.