Madras HC issues notice to TN Minister

Chennai, Oct 13 (UNI) The Madras High Court today issued notice to Tamil Nadu Agriculture Minister Veerapandi S Arumugam and a DMK Salem District Secretary, on a Habeas Corpus Petition (HCP) seeking a direction to the authorities to produce one Raju, Salem District Secretary of the Tamil Nadu Human Rights Movement (TNHRM), before the court.

Petitioner Poomozhi alias K A Mohammed Ibrahim, State president of TNHRM said Raju had taken up an issue relating to land grabbing at Narasothipatti, Rettiyur, within the Salem Corporation limits. He alleged that the disputed land was illegally possessed and sold by some ruling party members.

Mr Ibrahim said his organisation had been taking up the issue in favour of the government and in support of the poor people belonging to Narasothipatti and Rettiyuur.

Some people encroached upon the land and illegaly put up constructions, the petitioner contended.

The petitioner further said Raju sent a complaint to the Salem District Collector. The local administration did not take any step to recover the government land.

On September 22, Raju went missing. His wife filed a complaint with the police, but no action was taken.

A Division Bench comprising Justice Elipe Dharma Rao and Justice S Tamilvanan, issued notices to the Minister and one Jayavel, DMK division secretary, Chengalpettai, Narasothipatti, Salem.

UNI XR BDP KN2338