Kidnapping case: SC questions Tamil Nadu govt over suspension of ADGP Jayaram

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday criticised the Tamil Nadu government for suspending Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) HM Jayaram, while hearing his plea seeking anticipatory bail in connection with a kidnapping case linked to a family dispute.

SC slams suspension

A bench comprising Justice Ujjal Bhuyan and Justice Manmohan questioned the necessity of the suspension, especially since Jayaram had been cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

"You can't do this... it is very demoralising," Justice Manmohan said, referring to the officer’s 28 years of service. The bench reminded the state that it had earlier claimed its only concern was for Jayaram to join the investigation.

"When he has joined the investigation what is the need to suspend him?" the court asked.

Justice Bhuyan further added, "You obtain instructions to withdraw the suspension order... he is a senior police officer."

Jayaram challenges arrest order in SC

Mr Jayaram had approached the Supreme Court to challenge a previous arrest order issued by the High Court. His counsel argued that the senior officer had been taken into custody immediately after the High Court’s directive and was only released 24 hours later after seeking relief from the apex court.

Despite his release, the officer remains under suspension from active duty.

State denies formal arrest

In response, the Tamil Nadu government claimed that Jayaram had not been formally arrested. According to police sources, he was “let off” following initial detention, as per the High Court's order.

Background of the case

According to police accounts, the case was triggered when Vanaraja, the father of a young woman who had married her 22-year-old boyfriend, sought the help of Maheswari, a former police constable, to dissolve the marriage and bring his daughter back.

Maheswari allegedly reached out to ADGP Jayaram, who in turn reportedly involved Puratchi Bharatham Party Chief and MLA Poovai Jagan Moorthy.

Failing to locate the groom, the group allegedly kidnapped his 16-year-old younger brother. The minor was eventually released, reportedly under pressure, from the official vehicle of ADGP Jayaram. The vehicle was being driven by a police constable and also had Vanaraja and Maheswari inside at the time of the boy's release.

Court yet to grant bail to MLA

The Supreme Court has not yet granted anticipatory bail to the MLA involved in the case. The bench made stern remarks regarding the legislator’s alleged role.

The court observed that a lawmaker "ought to be a role model and not involve himself in kangaroo courts."

(Agency inputs)