The DMK government in Tamil Nadu has filed an appeal in the Supreme Court challenging a Madras High Court order that directed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe a kidney racket.
The Madras High Court had earlier criticized the state government for allegedly taking the kidney racket lightly and failing to register a First Information Report (FIR). The court had ordered the registration of an FIR and the formation of an SIT to investigate the case.
The High Court also instructed that the SIT submit periodical progress reports, with the first report due on 24 September 2025.
The SIT, as per the HC order, is to be headed by Southern Zone IG Prem Anand Sinha and tasked with investigating alleged irregularities in kidney sales. The probe is linked to complaints regarding the alleged exploitation of poor workers by brokers and illegal kidney donations.
The Tamil Nadu government’s appeal in the Supreme Court comes before registration of the FIR or compliance with the HC directions. Observers note that an FIR could trigger involvement from agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate, potentially uncovering alleged financial irregularities connected to hospitals reportedly owned by a DMK MLA.
In its original order, the Madurai bench of the High Court emphasized the seriousness of the case, stating: “A special investigation team headed by Southern Zone IG Prem Anand Sinha should investigate the cases related to kidney sale irregularities and submit its report by September 24.”
It is noteworthy that the kidney trafficking scandal centers on Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Hospital, linked to DMK MLA Kathiravan, son of the hospital’s founder. Allegations suggest the hospital and its political patron shielded illegal kidney transplants targeting poor women, with brokers coercing victims and using forged Aadhaar cards. M. Anandan, a DMK party speaker, is accused of orchestrating the racket and remains absconding. Sources claim Kathiravan’s influence blocked the establishment of a government medical college in Perambalur to protect hospital interests. While the hospital publicly offers free treatment and medical camps, critics allege these initiatives may have concealed organ harvesting operations, highlighting potential systemic protection through political connections.
The Supreme Court will now hear the state government’s appeal, which seeks to stay or modify the HC’s directions regarding the investigation and SIT formation.
(With inputs from Dinakaran)
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