The Madras High Court on Monday struck down the Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government’s decision to provide compassionate appointments to the families of those who lost their lives in the Karur
stampede, holding that the move violated constitutional provisions governing public employment.
The Karur stampede took place during a rally led by TVK chief and actor Vijay on September 27 last year, claiming the lives of 41 people and leaving several others injured.
Setting aside the government order, the court observed that the appointments were “in direct violation of Article 14 and 16 of Constitution.”
“Compassionate appointments for this incident will only open floodgates for various others to seek such employment,” the court noted.
Stressing the constitutional limits on executive action, the bench observed that the exercise of executive power while issuing such orders must remain within the framework of the Constitution. The HC further said, “If executive action were to be left unfettered and given free hand, chaos will reign.”
Highlighting the principles governing public employment, the court remarked, “Public employment is not to be thrown away by state. It has to be earned. Its value has to be realised. Its importance is to be cherished. There are many who wait seeking employment.”
