Madras HC tells DGP: Punish cops holding kangaroo courts

Chennai: Furious over police conducting katta panchayats (kangaroo courts) and settling offences registered under section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act (cheque bounce cases) at police stations, the Madras high court has directed DGP to initiate action against cops involved in such activities that undermine the dignity of the court.

Justice C.T. Selvam made the observation when an agreement of a settlement took place in a police station in a cheque bouncing case after issuing non-bailable warrant by the court, was submitted before the judge, who took suo motu cognizance of the issue.

The judge said “time and again, this court notices that on the issue of NBW issued by courts dealing with cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act, the police, on securing the person, hold such person at the police station and the complainant. Brazenly, settlement or arrangements are made between the parties and are recorded.

Thereafter, the accused is allowed to walk away. On the one hand, the complainant in a case under section 138 of Negotiable Instruments Act obtains an admission or undertaking for repayment through the police agency and on the other hand, the dignity of court is undermined by a person apprehended pursuant to non-bailable warrant issued by it not being produced before the court.”

The judge said the issue raises serious concern and it would be proper to require the director general of police to issue instructions to avoid such wrongdoing.

The judge also directed the registry of Madras high court to send the copy of the order to DGP for appropriate action and for suitable instructions to the subordinates.