Wed Dec 17 18:15:03 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten version as a news article:
Summary:
Justice G.R. Swaminathan of the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court reprimanded government officials, including Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam, for using “law and order” as an excuse to disobey court orders. The reprimand stemmed from two contempt of court cases, one involving the Thirupparankundram deepam row and another concerning the illegal construction of a church in Dindigul. The judge expressed frustration at the repeated instances of officials seemingly prioritizing potential disturbances over adherence to legal mandates, emphasizing that such actions could lead to a breakdown of the constitutional machinery. He adjourned the case to January 9, 2026, demanding a more responsible approach from the Chief Secretary.
News Article:
Madurai High Court Judge Slams Officials for Disobeying Court Orders, Citing “Law and Order”
MADURAI, December 17, 2025 – Justice G.R. Swaminathan of the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court delivered a stern rebuke to government officials today, accusing them of using “law and order” concerns as a pretext for disregarding court-mandated orders. The condemnation came during the hearing of two contempt of court cases, one regarding the Thirupparankundram deepam dispute and the other concerning the unauthorized construction of a church in the Dindigul district.
Chief Secretary N. Muruganandam and Additional Director-General of Police (Law and Order) S. Davidson Devasirvatham appeared before the court via video conference. The judge expressed his dismay at the explanation provided by the Chief Secretary, stating unequivocally, “When a court issues an order, unless it is stayed or set aside by a higher forum, it has to be obeyed. Law and order cannot be a ground for flouting a court’s order.”
Justice Swaminathan highlighted the case of the illegally constructed church in Dindigul, which continued despite a court injunction. He pointedly questioned the authorities’ reluctance to act, suggesting a potential adverse conclusion could be drawn from their hesitation.
“I am tired. In how many cases am I to haul up the officers concerned for contempt?” the judge lamented. He further criticized the Chief Secretary’s reliance on law and order concerns while asserting respect for the judiciary.
The court adjourned the case until January 9, 2026, demanding a more responsible and compliant stance from the Chief Secretary. The contemnors, including Madurai Collector K.J. Praveen Kumar and Commissioner of Police J. Loganathan, were present in court and are expected to appear again in January.
The Chief Secretary maintained that officials respected court orders but cited situations where conflicting orders, law and order issues, and financial constraints hindered compliance. However, Justice Swaminathan firmly reiterated their duty to uphold the court’s decisions.
First Piper 