Madras High Court transfers case to DCB

Chennai, Aug 31 (UNI) Coming down heavily on the local police for delayed registration and lethargy in investigation of a case, the Madras High Court has ordered to transfer the case to the District Crime Branch (DCB) in Dharmapuri district.

While dismissing an anticipatory bail (AB) petition filed by a Bank Manager, Mr Justice R Regupathi observed that ''the irresponsibility of the investigating officer is very clear and the proceedings have not been initiated properly.'' On July 31 this year, Indusland Bank Manager (Dharmapuri District) Gurumurthi, along with two anti-social elements, threatened a person with dire consequences if he did not repay loan arrears.

Apprehending danger, the person consumed poison and was admitted to the Government Hospital, Salem, on July 31. Later, he was shifted to a private hospital.

The manager's counsel submitted that the person had obtained a loan of Rs 12.50 lakh after depositing title deeds with an agreement to repay it in 35 installments. However, the installments were not paid and the manager demanded the payment of arrears.

The manager was not responsible for his attempt to commit suicide, it said.

In his order, Mr Justice Reghupathi pointed out that a demand notice to initiate civil proceedings was not sent to the victim.

However, the case was filed only on August three by the Morappur police, he added.

Even after the delayed registration of the case, the police were lethargic and never showed interest in investigating the case, the Judge obseved.

Ordering the transfer of the case to the DCB, Mr Justice Reghupati directed the Superintendent of Police (DSP), Dharmapuri District, to entrust the investigation to a competent officer.

UNI XR DS RL NS1101