First Legal Shock To CM Vijay From High Court!

In what could be the first legal shock for Chief Minister Thalapathy Vijay after assuming power, the Madras High Court has cancelled the government orders which offered jobs to the legal heirs of Karur stampede victims. 

In September last year, a tragic stampede during Vijay’s political rally killed 41 people. The unfortunate incident came as a massive setback for Vijay and his TVK party in the run up to Tamil Nadu assembly elections. Vijay later met the families of victims after a few days and handed over financial assistance. 

Vijay assured government employment to the kin of deceased families if TVK comes to power. After taking charge as CM, Vijay decided to fulfil his promise and handed over appointment letters to 32 people from these families. 

Meanwhile, a Public Interest Litigation was filed in the High Court against this order.  It challenged the validity of the state government order, arguing that public sector employment could not be handed out outside of established statutory frameworks and regular recruitment processes like the TNPSC.

After considering the merits, the court has cancelled the government job appointment orders issued under the state’s relief and rehabilitation package for the victims’ legal heirs. The court observed that the case is being investigated by the CBI and noted that issuing orders of employment at this stage would violate Articles 14 and 16. 

The court also remarked that the government’s move will set a wrong precedent and might give chance to others in future to claim such privileges. 

So, this is a big blow to Vijay and his dispensation. It is unclear if they would move Supreme Court or rethink about their decision. Political opponents criticised Vijay for using power to gain political mileage.