The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to consider forming special teams in every district to probe cases that have been classified as “untraceable” for more than five years.
The order came on a petition filed by Maheswari of Palani in Dindigul district, who said nine sovereigns of gold jewellery were stolen from her home in 2020. She told the court that despite a complaint to the Palani police, the case was closed after the police stated the offenders could not be traced, and sought a re-investigation and compensation.
Justice L. Victoria Gowri directed the Home Department to pay compensation amounting to 30% of the value of the stolen property to the petitioner. The court said the amount can be recovered from the petitioner if the accused are later identified and the jewellery is recovered.
The judge also instructed the police to continue the investigation and asked supervisory officers to review its progress. If required, the case may be handed over to another special agency for a proper probe.
The court further noted that the government may provide additional infrastructure, powers and pay for such district-level teams, and consider rewards to encourage officials when accused persons are identified.
