The Madras High Court on Friday posted for further hearing on June 14, a writ petition filed by an advocate seeking a direction to authorities to arrest Douglas Devananda, Sri Lankan Minister of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprises Development, who is an absconding accused in a city murder case.
When the petition came up, the First Bench, comprising Chief Justice M.Y. Eqbal and Justice T.S. Sivagnanam, heard brief arguments by the petitioner's counsel. Later, the court adjourned the case.
In the public interest litigation petition, P. Pugalenthi alleged that the Sri Lankan Minister was involved in three criminal cases, which were pending before courts in Chennai.
A case had been registered by the Choolaimedu police station against Mr. Devananda in connection with the murder of Thirunavukkarasu (in 1986).
The Additional Sessions Judge in June 1994 had issued a proclamation warrant against Mr. Devananda, treating him as an absconding accused.
The petitioner said Mr. Devananda continued to be an absconding accused and a proclaimed offender.
Mr. Pugalenthi said he had sent two representations to the authorities requesting them to arrest Mr. Devananda and prosecute him. He did not receive any response. Hence, the present petition.
