Key Facts
The Division Bench of the Madras High Court, comprising Justices P. Velmurugan and K. Govindarajan Thilakavadi, has set aside an order passed by a single judge on May 14, 2025. The single judge had appointed an interim administrator for a society that runs Chettinad Vidyashram School in Chennai. The matter has been remitted back to the single judge for fresh consideration.
Details of the Case
The order was passed while disposing of a batch of appeals filed by some members of the Managing Committee of the society. Senior counsel Krishna Srinivasan and others appeared for the appellants and challenged the single judge’s order on several grounds, including the failure to grant an opportunity to file counter affidavits.
The District Registrar of Societies had moved a plea seeking appointment of a Special Officer to administer the society. The single judge had appointed an interim administrator without hearing the other parties fully.
Court's Observations and Directions
The Division Bench noted, “However, having regard to the paramount interest and smooth administration of the educational institution,” and ordered that meetings of the Managing Committee must stand deferred until the single judge rehears the issue and passes necessary orders as expeditiously as possible.
The Bench requested the single judge to afford an opportunity to all parties concerned to file their counter affidavits before passing any orders on the plea for appointment of a Special Officer.
Impact and What Readers Should Know
This decision ensures that the management of Chettinad Vidyashram School will continue without disruption while the court hears all parties. The interim administrator appointment has been nullified, and the single judge will now rehear the matter with full participation from all sides.
FAQ
What did the Madras High Court Division Bench decide?
The Division Bench set aside a single judge order appointing an interim administrator for the society running Chettinad Vidyashram School and remitted the matter for fresh consideration.
Why was the single judge order set aside?
The order was set aside because the single judge did not give the parties an opportunity to file counter affidavits before passing the order.
What direction was given regarding the Managing Committee?
The Division Bench ordered that meetings of the Managing Committee be deferred until the single judge rehears the issue and passes orders.
Source: www.thehindu.com