A division bench of Justices Kirubakaran and S S Sundar questioned the delay in submitting the excavation report. “The delay caused by the Centre in finding more information about the ancient civilization and Tamil culture was not acceptable,” the judges observed, after hearing a public interest litigation petition filed by one Kamaraj of Thoothukudi.

The judges observed that the transfer of an official deputed to monitor the excavation in Keezhadi in Sivagangai district had sparked a controversy, leading to allegations against the Central government’s Archaeological Department. “To avoid such allegations, the findings of excavation in Adichanallur should be announced soon,” they said.

In his petition, Kamaraj had claimed that archaeological artefacts dating back to around 13,000 years were found in Sivakalai Parambu near Eral in Thoothukudi district. “Moreover, the site where the artefacts were found has historical evidences on ground. Hence, the court must direct the Central and State governments to conduct an excavation in Sivakalai Parambu,” he said.

On hearing the petition, the bench ordered the Directors of Central and State Archaeology Departments to respond to the petitioner’s demand. If authorities fail to adhere to the direction, they would be summoned, the bench added. The case was then adjourned to February 19.