The petitioner's grievance is that he is unable to peacefully operate his industry of recycling lead from used batteries. According to the petitioner, there are some protesters who have been preventing him from peacefully conducting his business, alleging that the business creates pollution to the ground water.
2. I am of the view that the appropriate authority to consider granting of police protection is the fourth respondent herein. This Court will not step into the shoes of investigation officer for the purpose of analysing the ground reality. However, it is also the duty of the fourth respondent to consider the petitioner's request for police protection whenever such an application is made to him and cannot keep it pending indefinitely.
3. In the light of the above observations, the petitioner is granted liberty to approach the fourth respondent as and when he apprehends any disturbance to the peaceful operation of his business. On receipt of such application, the fourth respondent shall pass appropriate orders within a period of one week from the date of application made by the petitioner.
4. With the above observations and directions, the Criminal Original Petition stands allowed.
03.10.2017 Index:Yes/No ak/kal To
1. The Commissioner of Police, Salem.
2. The Deputy Commissioner of Police (L&O) Salem.
3. The Assistant Commissioner of Police, Salem South (L&O) Salem.
4. The Inspector of Police, Kitchipalayam Police Station, Salem District.
5. The Public Prosecutor, High Court, Madras.
M.S.RAMESH. J., ak/kal Crl.O.P.No. 5582 of 2015 03.10.2017