Madurai, October 3 (Daily Kiran) : The Madras High Court‘s Madurai bench has asserted the necessity of addressing criminal cases involving government employees, particularly in corruption matters. The court emphasized that pending criminal cases should not hinder departmental action against the implicated employees.
Justice Pugazhendi made these remarks while hearing petitions from five suspended government officials, who were caught red-handed accepting bribes. Among those suspended were Sunitha, Akhilin Mabel, Itturaj, Ganesamoorthy, and Ravichandran, all apprehended during a raid by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC).
The petitioners sought the annulment of their suspension orders. During the proceedings, Justice Pugazhendi noted that employees involved in criminal activities, especially bribery, often remain in service. He pointed out that the petitioners had been receiving salaries for years without performing any work, as no departmental action had been initiated against them.
The court stated, “The existence of a criminal case against an employee does not prevent the initiation of departmental proceedings for misconduct.” It stressed that disciplinary action against employees violating conduct rules is essential for maintaining the integrity of the administration.
The bench highlighted that the entry of individuals with criminal backgrounds into government service undermines administrative fairness and integrity. The court clarified that departmental actions can commence even while criminal cases are pending.
Justice Pugazhendi remarked that involvement in criminal activities, particularly corruption, by serving government employees should not be taken lightly. The current government has demonstrated a firm commitment to eradicating corruption and fostering a corruption-free society. Prompt action against employees engaged in corrupt practices sends a strong message against corruption and serves as a deterrent to others.
The court recommended that the government amend the conduct rules for employees to ensure a lasting solution to such issues. It directed that departmental proceedings against the petitioners should be completed within six months. The court warned that failure to do so might necessitate action against the officials responsible for initiating and conducting these proceedings.
With these directives, Justice Pugazhendi concluded the hearings on the petitions.
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