Madras High Court Directs District Collectors to Enforce Ban on Police Orderly Usage
In a significant ruling, the Madras High Court has declared that district collectors will be held responsible if any police officer within their jurisdiction is found to be using orderlies, in violation of a government order (GO) that prohibits this 'colonial practice'. The court emphasized the need for strict enforcement of the long-abolished custom, which continues to persist in some areas.
Court's Directive on Accountability and Enforcement
A division bench comprising Justice S M Subramaniam and Justice K Surender issued this directive, stating that the state government must take suitable action against district collectors who fail to comply. The bench highlighted, "...the colonial practice, since abolished long before, in practice continues. Thus, the government is duty-bound to work out modalities to enforce their own policy decision, if necessary, by initiating suitable actions not only against the collectors but also against the police officials concerned."
This decision came on March 6, following a submission by advocate-general P S Raman, who sought enforcement procedures for police authorities. The bench clarified that district collectors, upon receiving any information or written complaints, are expected to act swiftly. They must conduct inquiries through officials and initiate appropriate actions as per the GO to ensure compliance.
Implications for Governance and Police Practices
The ruling underscores the court's commitment to eradicating outdated practices and promoting accountability in public administration. By holding district collectors accountable, the court aims to ensure that the ban on using orderlies is effectively implemented, thereby modernizing police operations and aligning them with contemporary governance standards.
This move is part of broader efforts to reform administrative practices in Tamil Nadu, with the court urging proactive measures from both district collectors and police officials to uphold the government's policy decisions.
