News Tamil Nadu

Madras HC Orders Prompt Removal Of Illegal Flagpoles On National Highways; ASP Udhayakumar’s Firm Stand Gains Public Attention & Praise

March 13, 2024
The Commune

In a viral video making rounds on social media, ASP Udhayakumar, is being hailed as the real Singham cop from Kanchipuram, garnering applause from both locals and netizens. He was tasked with the duty of removing illegal flagpoles in the Sunguvarchathram bazaar area of Kancheepuram District by the Madras High Court. While carrying out his responsibilities, Sriperumbudur union committee leader Karunanidhi from DMK objected, arguing that flagpoles on the national highway should be targeted instead removing here.

ASP Udhayakumar said “State highways, National Highways all are same sir, what can we do? If you come to me what shall I do, go and file in-juncture in court, you are saying this casually. On Monday, the court will file contempt only on me.”

Sriperumbudur union committee leader Karunanidhi neglectfully replied, “Don’t we know the order?”

Despite patient explanations from the revenue department and the police showing the court’s order deeming these flagpoles illegal, Karunanidhi remained adamant. In response, ASP Udhayakumar firmly asserted, “I’m doing my job, don’t stop me, sue me if I’m wrong,” He then proceeded to order the removal of the DMK and other flags.

Netizens Praise Cop

Netizens were all praise for the cop who was doing his duty and confronting a member from the ruling party. He also ensured the structure constructed was demolished to ensure fairness.

What Was The Court Order About?

In a petition lodged by Chennai-based attorney Ramalingam with the Madras High Court, that various political parties have unlawfully placed their flags along national highways in Tamil Nadu. This action is purported to pose a threat to public safety, particularly impacting the flow of traffic, including school vehicles and ambulances. Moreover, it is alleged that these political entities have encroached upon land designated for the National Highway, utilizing it as a platform for their political activities.

Through the invocation of the Right to Information Act (RTI), Ramalingam sought information regarding these unlawful flagpoles. In response, the National Highways Authority revealed the presence of 40 such illegal flagpoles across three areas: Chennai-Tada, Koyambedu-Maduravoyal, as well as 34 in Kanchipuram district and 14 in Ranipettai district. Subsequently, the petition calling for the removal of these illegal flagpoles was brought before the bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjay Gangapurwala and Justice Bharatha Chakraborty on 5 March 2024.

During the proceedings, NHAI expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of cooperation from the Tamil Nadu government and the police department in removing these unlawfully erected flagpoles. Consequently, the judges, taking suo moto cognizance of the matter, summoned the Chief Secretary of Tamil Nadu as a respondent. They demanded an explanation for the non-cooperation and adjourned the hearing to March 11. Additionally, the judges emphasized that the High Court had previously issued orders for the removal of such flagpoles, warning that failure to comply constituted contempt of court.

On 11 March 2024, the first bench of the Madras High Court, consisting of Chief Justice SV Gangapurwala and Justice D Bharatha Chakravarthy, directed the state police to promptly take action to dismantle unauthorized flagpoles installed by political parties along national highways.

The bench firmly asserted that the installation of illegal flagpoles cannot be tolerated, stressing the necessity for law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against offending political parties. It instructed the state police to swiftly intervene to remove such unauthorized flagpoles. The court also noted the efforts made by NHAI in removing 89 flagpoles from 45 locations, with an additional 40 yet to be dismantled. Furthermore, the court took the initiative to involve the Election Commission of India (ECI) in the case, aiming to explore a lasting solution to the issue.

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