Hours before superannuation, Madras HC gives Pon Manickavel another year to continue idol probe

A division bench comprising Justice R Mahadevan and Justice PD Audikesavalu on being told ahead of pronouncing its order that the State has appointed Abhay Kumar Singh, Additional Director General of Police, as ADGP, Idol Wing, CID, said, “We are of the view that the State is not inclined to continue with the investigation of idol theft cases as the same were transferred to the CBI despite pendency of the stay order of this court.” “It is also pertinent to note that after the orders were reserved, they have upgraded the post of the Additional Director General of Police and appointed an officer, by order dated November 29, 2108, which action is inappropriate and it would amply prove the transfer of cases in a most hurried manner, within a single day that is on August 1, 2018,” the bench said.

Also, on holding that similarly, the way in which the present order appointing Abhay Kumar Singh has been passed, will speak for itself, the bench said, “Hence, notwithstanding the order dated November 29, 2018 passed by the government, which has become redundant, Pon Manickavel shall take charge as Special Officer to head the Idol Wing as ordered by us, in order to preserve the idols as well as recovery of the stolen idols to uphold the cultural heritage of this land.” Further, directing the Government to pass orders to that effect, the bench headed by Justice Mahadevan, said, “It is made clear that any delay by the Government in passing appropriate orders shall not curtail the powers of Pon Manickavel to head the team and investigate the case and take appropriate action as per law.” The bench also posted the matter for reporting compliance after six weeks.