Political Interference In Appointments is Also Corruption: Madras High Court

MADURAI: Stating that political interference and influence in appointments is also " corruption", the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court today set aside the appointment of six watchmen in Schools of 'Usilampatti Educational District.'

Justice S.Nagamuthu also directed the government to appoint SP of Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-corruption, Xavier Dhanaraj to investigate the appointments, and submit a report within six months to the government. He said if prosecution needed, could be initiated against if anyone was found guilty.

The Judge, however, said those who were appointed on merit would not be disturbed.

Justice S.Nagamuthu rejected the report of the senior IAS officer and Principal Secretary to the Industries Department C.V.Shankar regarding the appointments, which said the appointments had been made not only based on recommendations but on merit,

The judge said such a policy would deprive genuinely meritorious and poor students who could not influence either through politicians or otherwise of their jobs and livelihood.

"The politicians could make recommendation, for example, for drainage in their areas..or for a bridge..or even street water tap..but they should not interfere in appointments."

The judge said the IAS officer seemed to have believed the statements of the officials of the education department, on the face of it, and had submitted his report without enquiring those who gave the recommendations.