Kumarapandian P v. The Revenue Divisional Officer

BEFORE THE MADURAI BENCH OF MADRAS HIGH COURT DATED: 24.06.2025

CORAM:

THE HONOURABLE MR.JUSTICE VIVEK KUMAR SINGH W.P.(MD) No.16982 of 2025 and WMP (MD) Nos.12893 & 12894 of 2025 P.Kumarapandian : Petitioner Vs.

The Revenue Divisional Officer, Revenue Divisional Office, Kulithalai, Karur District.

: Respondent P RAYER:

Writ Petitions filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India for issuance of Writ of Certiorarified Mandamus, to call for the records pertaining to the impugned order dated 13.10.2023 bearing R.C.A7/6577/2023 passed by the respondent and quash the same and consequently direct the respondent to reinstate the petitioner in the post of Village Administrative Officer.

For Petitioner : Mr. K.Rajeshwaran For Respondent : Mr.K.Balasubramani Special Government Pleader 1/6

O R D E R

Challenging the suspension order dated 13.10.2023 issued by the respondent, the present writ petition has been filed by the petitioner.

2. Heard the learned counsel for the parties. By consent of both parties, the Writ Petition is taken up for final disposal at the admission stage itself.

3. The learned counsel for the petitioner submitted that the impugned proceedings were initiated against the petitioner, who has allegedly been trapped by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Wing. He further stated that the enquiry proceedings have been delayed, as the impugned order was passed over a year ago. Additionally, he argued that the suspension order was issued without providing an opportunity of hearing or conducting a preliminary enquiry, which violates the principles of natural justice.

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4. On the other hand, the learned Special Government Pleader, appearing on behalf of the respondent, submitted that the enquiry proceedings are currently underway. Accordingly, he requested a period of three months to complete the enquiry initiated against the petitioner.

5. In view of the above submission, in the interest of justice and to ensure that the issue is adjudicated fairly and without undue delay, this Court is inclined to permit the enquiry proceedings to be conducted and concluded in a time-bound manner. Accordingly, this Court directs the respondent to proceed with the disciplinary enquiry and complete the same within a period of three months from the date of receipt of a copy of this order. It is made clear that the enquiry shall be conducted strictly in accordance with law and the petitioner shall be afforded due opportunity to submit his explanation and to participate in the enquiry proceedings.

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6. With the above directions, the Writ Petition stands disposed of. There shall be no order as to costs. Consequently, the connected miscellaneous petitions are closed. 24.06.2025 Index : Yes / No Internet : Yes / No PKN 4/6

To The Revenue Divisional Officer, Revenue Divisional Office, Kulithalai, Karur District.

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VIVEK KUMAR SINGH, J.

PKN W.P.(MD) No.16982 of 2025 24.06.2025 6/6