Register FIR in public library book ‘scam’ case, Madras HC directs DVAC

MADURAI Taking a serious view of the suspected scam in procurement of books for public libraries, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Tuesday directed the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) to register an FIR and freeze the bank accounts of Agal Vilakku Publications, its proprietor Mohan, and others involved. ‘Share officials’ details’ Hearing a contempt petition filed in this regard, a Division Bench of Justices G.R.

Swaminathan and M.D. Sumathi directed the Director of Public Libraries to make available the names and details of officials who were responsible for allegedly making fraudulent procurements of so-called books during the last two years and more, so that they could be impleaded as contemnors in the petition and dealt with appropriately.

The government should immediately take disciplinary action, including the suspension of those involved. The librarians concerned should take forthwith the inventory of such suspect books and make them unavailable to the reading public, the court directed.