KOCHI: The state government on Tuesday invited the wrath of the High Court for its alleged soft approach in the Thomas Chandy case.The Bench said though the court has been extending support to the state government, it was not ready to back the views of the court. It was extremely ‘improper’ on the part of a minister to file a petition before the court, it stated. It also questioned the silence of the government on the issue. Following this, the state attorney agreed to the court observation it was an ‘improper’ move by the minister.
The state attorney submitted the District Collector’s report contained some reference regarding possession of some extent of land by Chandy and it was not against him.He said the Village Officer reported there was a violation of rules and hence, action was initiated by the Collector. The court asked why the government was sitting on the Collector’s report without taking action.
“Your idea is to place it on our (Court) shoulders,” the court stated.The state attorney said whether it is a common man or a minister, all are equal before the law. The inquiry can be completed once we receive the survey report.The Revenue authorities will take foolproof action after collecting all documents and details, the state attorney said.
The court remarks on Cabinet losing its collective responsibility is serious. CPI is a political party with enough spine to make public opinions which should be made public, and to raise those issues which should be raised within LDF. After detailed discussions, LDF entrusted the Chief Minister to take a final decision. it’s for the respective political parties to take a call on changing its ministers. What is happening now is the outcome of ministers controlling their parties rather than the other way around
Kanam Rajendran, CPI state secretary