An Assistant Section Officer of the State Home Department, who was caught videographing proceedings in the Madras High Court using a cell phone, prostrated in apology in front of a Division Bench on Monday.
On Thursday last, A. Venkatesan, was found videographing the proceedings when a Division Bench of Justices K.N. Basha and N. Paul Vasanthakumar was hearing a petition filed by former minister S. Arumugam, challenging his detention under the Goondas Act.
The Bench made it clear that the official interfered with the administration of justice and seized the instrument. It told him to explain as to why contempt of court proceedings should not be initiated. When the matter came up before the Bench, the official threw himself down in front of the Bench.
On behalf of the government, it was submitted that departmental charges had been framed against the official.
In its order, the Bench directed the Government Pleader to file an affidavit to regulate the entry of government officials on the High Court premises. The GP prayed for time. The matter has been posted for October 12. The Bench reserved orders on the plea by Mr. Arumugam, on conclusion of arguments.
