Madras HC asks police to allow Tipu Sultan's birth anniversary function

Chennai: The Madras High Court on Wednesday directed Tamil Nadu police to accord permission with conditions to an outfit to hold a public meeting in January in connection with the birth anniversary celebrations of 18th century Mysore ruler Tipu Sultan in Vellore district.

Justice MM Sundresh gave the direction to the inspector of Gudiyatham Town Police Station on a petition filed by Ismail, general secretary of Thamizhaga Makkal Jananayaga Katchi, seeking grant of permission to hold the function.

The police had on November 20 informed the court that they had rejected permission to Katchi apprehending law and order problem, which was challenged by the outfit.

When the matter came up today, the police informed the court that they were ready to give sanction to the organisation to hold the meeting after imposing 17 conditions, which were recorded by the court.

The conditions include that no speeches should be made against any religion, the government or its policies. The speeches should be only about the life of Tipu Sultan.

The outfit submitted that as the birth date of Tipu Sultan on November 20 had already gone by, it proposed to have the meeting on November 27.

But the counsel for the government submitted as there is no sufficient time left to make arrangements for security, another date may be selected by the petitioner.

The outfit then proposed January 9 or 10 and the judge directed the police give permission to hold the meeting with the conditions imposed by them.