Cop who tried to arrest accused in court hall fined

The first bench comprising Chief Justice Indira Banerjee and Justice P T Asha imposed the fine on the head constable, who entered the court hall, after not being satisfied with the unconditional apology tendered by them.

The matter pertains to the murder of M Citibabu, a resident of Ondipudur, Coimbatore on April 4. A case was registered, and three of the four accused were arrested by the police.

On April 10, the fourth accused Santhosh came to the Judicial Magistrate Court I in Tirupur to surrender. But while the proceedings were going on, a team led by Singanallur police inspector Munishwaran tried to arrest the accused inside the court premises which was allegedly foiled by a group of advocates present in the court.

Subsequently, the magistrate concerned sent a detailed report to the Chief Justice. Taking stock of the report, the first bench initiated suo motu contempt proceedings against the three cops.

When the plea came up for hearing on Monday, Munishwaran and driver Velan tendered unconditional apology to the court and submitted that it was only head constable who entered the court.

The bench then posted the plea to report compliance on July 23. Also, the police filed an affidavit on behalf of the DGP informing the court that a circular has been issued to all the police stations across the state explaining the guidelines to be followed while effecting an arrest.