While directing an advocate of Nilavarapatti, Salem, to file a fresh complaint with the Salem Police Commissioner, in connection with a threat to his life, the Madras High Court has ordered the police to register a case if any cognisable offence is made out. The case should be only against those persons against whom offences are made out.
In his petition, A.B. Manikandan, BJP Salem District vice-president, said that in October last year he had questioned the alleged act of the Agriculture Minister, Veerapandi S.Arumugam, in meeting his (Minister's) nephew in Central Prison in a car belonging to Salem Corporation and for use by the Mayor.
He lodged his protest and conducted a rally. Following this, he received threatening calls. He lodged a police complaint. A constable has been posted at his house.
The petitioner said he continued to receive threats. His complaint evoked no response. On November 30, a car attempted to ram into his two-wheeler. He escaped. He forwarded a complaint dated December 1 to the higher authorities seeking registration of a case and also to provide adequate police protection to him. No action had been taken. Hence, the present petition.
On behalf of the authorities, it was submitted that based on the earlier complaint a case had been registered. The petitioner wanted to file a second complaint for the same set of allegations.
The petitioner's counsel said his client continued to receive threats.
To this, it was submitted that no complaint was pending on the police file. The petitioner may approach the Salem Commissioner with a fresh complaint.
In his order, Justice G.M. Akbar Ali directed Mr. Manikandan to file a fresh complaint along with a copy of the court order and relevant documents.
By another order, Mr.Justice Akbar Ali recorded the submission on behalf of the authorities that already police protection had been given to the petitioner.
