MDMK can now hold public meetings: Madras HC

Chennai, Oct 3: Madras High Court on Monday, Nov 3 directed the Commissioner of Police (CoP), Greater Chennai, to grant permission to Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) to hold public meeting condemning the arrest of its General Secretary Vaiko. Disposing a writ filed by MDMK North Chennai District Secretary S Jeevan, Justice K Suguna cancelled the CoP's order rejecting the application for permission to hold the meeting in this city.

She directed the petitioner to give a fresh application to the CoP in five days and also directed the CoP to consider and pass the necessary orders within two days.

In his petition, Mr Jeevan submitted his application dated October 24 seeking permission to hold a meeting at Mint here was rejected by the police on Oct 29.

The party wanted to hold the meeting on October 30 protesting the arrest of Mr Vaiko and MDMK Presidium Chairman Kannappan on October 23.

The two leaders were picked up by State Q Branch Police on October 21 on the charges of sedition and other unlawful activities.

The application for permission was rejected by police without him being given an opportunity to explain his stand as contemplated under the provisions of the Tamil Nadu City Police Act,the petitioner contended.

The petitioner further alleged that the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police had telephonicaly instructed all police stations in the State to deny permission for any public meeting or demonstration or hunger fast organised by the MDMK.

UNI