16 hours ago
HC directs Tirunelveli Collector to initiate appropriate action on complaint alleging misappropriation of panchayat funds
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has directed the Tirunelveli Collector to initiate appropriate action on a complaint alleging misappropriation of Nochikulam village panchayat funds in Tirunelveli district by the panchayat president.
The court was hearing a petition filed by L. Roslin Mercy of Tirunelveli district who sought a direction to the Tirunelveli Collector to take appropriate action against S. Vellammal, the president of Nochikulam village panchayat in Palayamkottai, for misappropriation of funds of the panchayat. The petitioner also sought a probe into the illegalities and financial irregularities.
A Division Bench of Justices S.M. Subramaniam and A.D. Maria Clete observed that under the provisions of Tamil Nadu Panchayats Act, the District Collector / Inspector of Panchayats is duty bound to initiate appropriate action on receipt of complaints regarding illegalities, financial irregularities, etc.
In view of the statutory obligations cast upon the District Collector, the court observed that it is inclined to direct the Tirunelveli Collector to initiate all appropriate action on the complaint given by the petitioner in 2024 and if necessary, conduct appropriate inquiry by following the procedures as contemplated under the Acts and Rules in 12 weeks. With the direction, the court disposed of the petition.
