Madras High Court Issues Notice To Central and State Govts on Plea for CBI Probe into Jayalalithaa's Death

The Madras High Court today issued notice to the Central and State Governments in the plea seeking a CBI investigation into the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa.

The petition was filed by Advocate Ramkumar Adithyan, who stated that he was driven to take action even eight years after Jayalalithaa's demise due to the lack of transparency surrounding her death.

Adithyan pointed out that he had previously made representations to initiate actions against those exercising extra-constitutional authority during Jayalalithaa's hospitalization, those responsible for withdrawing her Z-Plus security, and individuals who issued false statements misleading the public. Despite these efforts, no actions were taken, prompting him to approach the court for relief.

The bench of Acting Chief Justice R Mahadevan and Justice Mohammed Shaffiq has asked the respondent authorities to examine the petition and respond. Adithyan argued that press and medical reports suggested the official medical bulletins during Jayalalithaa's hospitalization did not accurately reflect her health status, and many statements made were false.

Further, Adithyan expressed concerns that the state police investigating the complicity of officials and dignitaries might not result in a fair investigation, possibly hindering the revelation of the truth or justice. He noted that the CBI was equipped to investigate crimes committed by highly placed functionaries and ministers with authoritative powers.

Moreover, Adithyan referenced the Arumughaswamy Commission, which had been appointed to investigate the circumstances surrounding Jayalalithaa's hospitalization and death, stating that it also indicated the need for further scrutiny.

Case Title: B Ramkumar Adityan v Home Secretary and others