Having kids at home no ground for anticipatory bail, TNPSC accused told

Chennai

A Bhavani, G Saranya and K Umaheswari had moved the bail plea submitting that the case was based on suspicion. “All three are natives of Manamadurai and Sivagangai. Since they are relatives, they had chosen the same exam centre in Rameshwaram. They are women and have children. If arrested, their entire family would be shattered. There is no conspiracy, and no need to arrest them. Further, considering the COVID situation, they may be granted anticipatory bail,” counsel for the petitioner said.

Countering this, City Public Prosecutor said, “Though the petitioners are women, they have indulged in malpractice in the TNPSC examinations. Granting them anticipatory bail will send a wrong signal to the society at large.”

Disposing of the plea, Principal Sessions Judge R Selvakumar said, “They have chosen the centre at Rameswaram though they belong to nearby districts. Selecting an island centre for TNPSC examinations itself points to the possibility of scheming with the help of middlemen in getting through the examinations. Prima facie, there is evidence against the petitioners.”

The judge said, “The entire selection process is being questioned, and the investigation is at an early stage. Under such circumstances, just because they are women and have children cannot be a reason for granting anticipatory bail.”