AIADMK ex-councillor Jayagopal, who has been arrested for putting up illegal banners for his son’s wedding that killed 23-year-old Subhasri, has sought bail stating that his cadre had put up the banner.
The leader submitted his bail application to the Madras High Court on Thursday, arguing that AIADMK cadres had done it out of ‘love and affection.’ One of the banners, placed to welcome Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, fell on a two-wheeler bound Subhasri as she was returning home from work on the Thoraipakkam-Pallavaram road. The techie lost her balance upon being struck by the banner and a tanker lorry ran over her, taking her life.
According to the Times of India, Jayagopal, in his bail plea, accused the Chennai police of having 'mechanically' adding his name to the FIR with an 'ulterior motive’. He said that he had no role in the installation of the banners. According to The New Indian Express, he also blamed the police for not carrying out a thorough investigation.
Two cases have been filed against Jayagopal for putting up hoardings illegally without permission from the Chennai Corporation. One case has been filed against him in the Pallikaranai police station under Section 3 of The Tamil Nadu Open Places (Prevention of Disfigurement) Act, 1959 (for placing advertisements on the road illegally) and Section 326 of the Indian Penal Code (causing grievous hurt by dangerous weapons or means).
It may be recalled that Jayagopal had been on the run following the death of Subhasri. After absconding for two weeks, he was nabbed from a hideout in Krishnagiri district.
Justice B Pugazhendi posted the matter for hearing on October 15 after the prosecution sought time to respond.