CHENNAI: The Madras High Court has directed the State police chief to provide police protection, including at least one armed police officer, to former IAS officer U Sagayam whenever he appears before court to depose in the illegal mining cases, observing that his evidence is crucial and that he faces threats to his life while appearing as a witness.
Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan also directed the review committee, which is examining Sagayam's request for restoration of police protection, to complete the enquiry and pass appropriate orders expeditiously.
In his plea, Sagayam submitted that, while serving as Madurai Collector in 2012, he detected large-scale illegal mining, violations of licence conditions and substantial loss to the State exchequer. Though he submitted a report to the State Government, no action was taken, and he was subsequently transferred.
He further submitted that, in 2014, the High Court appointed him as a special officer to inspect mines across the State in connection with alleged illegal mining. His report estimated the loss to the State at Rs 1,11,000 crore. Following death threats, the High Court ordered police protection for him, which was withdrawn in December 2023.
Sagayam contended that the withdrawal of security was contrary to the High Court's earlier observations recognising the threat perception. He further submitted that the trial in the illegal mining cases was under way and that he has been summoned to depose before the special court dealing with offences under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act. Apprehending threats to his life, he stated that he had been unable to appear before the trial court to give evidence and therefore sought restoration of police protection.