Madras High Court Orders Action Against State's Deputy Law Secretary For Creating Ruckus Inside Court

Calling the act “scandalizing” and “lowering the authority of the Madras High Court”, Justice MS Ramesh asked the Principal Secretary to place Nagaraj under suspension from service in contemplation of the disciplinary proceedings.

"Mr. C. Nagarajan's behavior amounts to scandalizing and lowering the authority of the Madras High Court, as well as interfering and obstructing with the Administration of justice," the court observed.

Nagaraj, who was assigned the duty to instruct the Government Pleaders, had behaved in an unruly manner on March 23, when the court was in recess, as per the order. He had allegedly raised his voice and used unparliamentary words against the Government Pleaders in the presence of Court Officer and other court staff. Nagaraj had come to court in connection with a Contempt Plea.

This behaviour was also witnessed by other lawyers who were present in court and was recorded in the court CCTV cameras also, the court said in the order. The court noted that Nagaraj continued this behaviour even outside the court in the corridors and the same was also witnessed by others including lawyers.

"The further course of action, as to whether this Court would proceed for criminal contempt, would be taken up in the next hearing date on 31.03.2023," the court said.

Case No: Cont.P.No.2622 of 2022

Citation: 2023 LiveLaw (Mad) 100