Introduction:

In a landmark ruling, the Madras High Court has directed senior government officials, including the Chief Secretary to the Government, Secretary to the Government, Home Department, State of Tamil Nadu, and the Director General of Police, to establish a High-Level Secret Committee. This committee will be tasked with monitoring police officers suspected of colluding with drug offenders. The case, titled G. Theeran Thirumurugan @ Thirumurugan v State of Tamil Nadu (W.P(MD)No.11168 of 2024),underscores the court’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes while ensuring police integrity.

Arguments of both sides:

The petitioner, represented by Mr. R. Alagumani, argued that despite the state’s efforts to curb drug movement, police inaction and collusion with drug offenders remained significant issues. He recounted a disturbing incident where a group of men, under the influence of alcohol and drugs, disrupted public peace and assaulted others with dangerous weapons. Highlighting the public’s reluctance to file complaints due to police inaction, the petitioner sought the establishment of a police outpost in specific Madurai neighborhoods, increased night patrolling, the installation of CCTV cameras in key locations, and the creation of a special police wing to tackle drug-related crimes.

The respondents, represented by Mr. R. Sureshkumar, Additional Government Pleader, and Mr. T. Senthil Kumar, Additional Public Prosecutor, countered these allegations. They argued that the state had already taken substantial measures to combat drug trafficking and related crimes. They cited the registration of numerous NDPS cases, arrests, and significant seizures of contraband. The respondents also mentioned the state’s efforts to monitor individuals involved in NDPS cases through history sheets and a special team.

Court’s Judgment:

The bench, comprising Justice P. Velmurugan and Justice K. Rajasekar, acknowledged the state’s ongoing efforts to control drug movement. However, the court emphasized the need for greater vigilance and integrity among police officers to make these efforts more effective. The court found merit in the petitioner’s concerns about police collusion with drug offenders and the public’s fear of reporting crimes.

Consequently, the court directed the formation of a High-Level Secret Committee composed of officers with integrity to monitor police officers suspected of collaborating with drug offenders. This committee is expected to ensure stringent oversight and maintain the integrity of the police force.

In addressing the specific concerns raised by the petitioner, the court noted the state’s actions in dealing with NDPS cases over the past five years, including the registration of 49 cases, the arrest of 78 accused individuals, and the seizure of over 1,070 kilograms of contraband. The court also acknowledged the opening of history sheets against individuals involved in NDPS cases, monitored by a special team.

Ultimately, the court found that the state had taken adequate steps to address the grievances raised by the petitioner and disposed of the plea accordingly. The court’s directive to establish a secret committee reflects its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability within the police force while combating drug-related crimes.