Madras HC Denies Minister Marie Wilson Exemption from Puducherry Court Appearance

The Madras High Court on Friday remarked that Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Marie Wilson is not the King of England and cannot refuse to appear before a court of law. Justice V Lakshminarayan made the observation while hearing a matter concerning a criminal case pending against the minister.

The case in question involves allegations that Wilson assaulted his brother and sister-in-law in 2022. The proceedings are currently pending before a court in Puducherry. Wilson had approached the High Court with a plea seeking to quash the case.

During Friday's hearing, counsel representing the minister requested an exemption from his physical appearance before the Puducherry court. The counsel argued that the exemption was necessary because the state Legislative Assembly session is currently underway.

Justice Lakshminarayan rejected the submission and questioned the justification for avoiding court appearances after assuming public office. The judge pointed out that even former Prime Minister P V Narasimha Rao had appeared before a court while holding office.

The court noted that Wilson had previously appeared before the court before becoming a minister, questioning why he should refuse to appear after taking office.

The Madras High Court subsequently directed the minister's counsel to specify and submit the date on which Wilson would appear before the Puducherry court. The bench then adjourned the hearing to the afternoon.