Tue Apr 08 08:49:12 UTC 2025: **Madras High Court Accuses Tamil Nadu Government of Disrespect**
CHENNAI, April 8, 2025 – The Madras High Court on Tuesday sharply criticized the Tamil Nadu government for what it termed disrespectful behavior. The government had agreed to argue a case concerning the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) raid on the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) headquarters in the High Court, but simultaneously filed a transfer petition with the Supreme Court.
Justice S.M. Subramaniam, presiding over the Division Bench with Justice K. Rajasekar, questioned the government’s motives, suggesting a prioritization of the interests of a few Tasmac officials over public interest. The judge noted the government’s consent to a hearing date, only to later seek a transfer to the Supreme Court without informing the High Court until after the case was initially passed over.
The State Government Pleader, Edwin Prabakar, argued that the government acted to protect the welfare of the state and its citizens, citing a late delivery of the ED’s counter-affidavit as a reason for seeking more time. However, Justice Subramaniam emphasized that the government’s actions undermined the court’s proceedings and constituted a breach of commitment.
While acknowledging the government’s right to appeal to the Supreme Court, the judge deemed the manner of its action unfair. The hearing was adjourned until 2:15 p.m. pending clarification on the status of the Supreme Court petition and a possible stay order. The court will resume hearing the case at the appointed time.
First Piper 