Observing that for the first time the state has come forward with such a huge project connecting all the villages and small towns between Salem and Chennai for avoiding huge time delay to reach either place, Justice T Raja dismissed the petition on holding, “Without fully knowing the ramifications and objects the government had in its vision for such a huge project, these types of meetings should be avoided for the benefit of all.”

He said, “This court is unable to appreciate how this writ petition is sought to be filed before this court. In my considered view, the project would pave way for many industries, factories and even multi-national companies to set up their establishments because they can reach the establishments and take cargo/goods and other materials without delay, which would, in turn, generate employment opportunities to all the youth be it skilled, semi-skilled or unskilled,” the judge added.

The matter relates to a petition from KV Suseenthirakumar, President, TMC, Salem West District, seeking a direction to the police to consider his representation to conduct a public meeting to be addressed by Vasan.

The plea on noting that the meeting has been planned to impress upon the government to stop the acquisition proceedings of agricultural lands for the project contended that permission for the meeting was sought for on June 18.

Subsequently, another representation was also offered on June 28. But, since no response had come forth and the police were hesitating to offer permission, they had no choice but to approach the court.