Wed Dec 10 19:27:59 UTC 2025: News Article:
Retired Judge Alleges Bias, Calls for Transfer in Thirupparankundram Case
Chennai, December 11, 2025 – A retired judge, D. Hariparanthaman, has publicly requested the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court to transfer the Thirupparankundram case from Justice G.R. Swaminathan of the Madurai Bench. Speaking to the media yesterday, the retired judge cited several instances of alleged procedural irregularities and bias on the part of Justice Swaminathan.
Hariparanthaman claimed that Justice Swaminathan had issued a contempt notice against state government officials without adhering to proper protocols, effectively “paralysing the government machinery.” He further alleged that the judge canceled prohibitory orders issued by the Madurai Collector without seeking the Collector’s input, a move he stated should have involved filing a new case.
Adding another layer to the controversy, S. Vanchinathan, coordinator of the Matha Nallinakka Makkal Kootamaippu, presented evidence suggesting that the disputed “deepathoon” (pillar) in Thirupparankundram is actually a survey stone used by the Survey of India. He referenced a 2022 RTI response from the Survey of India, confirming the existence of two such stones as part of a Geometrial Trigonometry station (GT station) used for surveying, with one being damaged and the other now at the center of the legal dispute.
The request for transfer and the ongoing debate surrounding the nature of the structure in Thirupparankundram is expected to draw further scrutiny to the case.
Summary of the Text:
A retired judge, D. Hariparanthaman, is seeking the transfer of the Thirupparankundram case from Justice G.R. Swaminathan, alleging bias and procedural violations. He claims Justice Swaminathan issued improper contempt notices and canceled prohibitory orders without due process. Separately, S. Vanchinathan asserts that the disputed pillar in the case is actually a survey marker, supported by RTI documentation from the Survey of India.
First Piper 