Chennai: In a shocking incident a 44-year MTC driver stabbed his estranged wife during hearing in a family court on Madras High Court premises on Tuesday. While the police arrested the driver, the woman, who sustained injuries, was admitted to Stanley Government Medical college hospital. The incident sent shock waves among the legal fraternity and litigants.
The incident occurred when the couple, R. Saravanan, 44, and Varalakshmi of Siruvanjur village, Sriperumbudur, Kancheepuram district, appeared before the Additional Family Court-I, for a hearing at 11.30 am.
Varalkshmi, victim.
Saravanan was sitting in the row behind his wife. He suddenly fished out a knife, which was concealed in his shirt, and attempted to slit his wife’s neck. A litigant, who was sitting next to him, noticed it and pushed him. After regaining his position, Saravanan stabbed his wife again on her chest. She sustained injuries and fell down in the court hall.
Immediately, the judge alerted the principal family court judge, who rushed to the place and ordered the police to take control of the situation. She was rushed to Stanley Government Medical college hospital in an ambulance. Based on the statement of Varalakshmi, B4 police registered a case and arrested Saravanan. The cops are conducting further investigation.
The knife with which Varalakshmi was attacked.
Normal work was affected in the court for more than 30 minutes. It is not known how Saravanan carried weapon into the court hall. In 2009 Saravanan filed a divorce petition and in 2011 she filed a petition seeking maintenance from him.
Advocate R.Y George Williams said eight family courts are functioning in the Madras high court complex. Among these currently only five courts have judges. A total of 15,000 cases are pending in all these eight courts. Efforts must taken to increase the number of family courts in Chennai and other parts of the State.
The advocate said steps must be taken to speed up the trial and petitions must be disposed of quickly. Separate appearance of petitioners and respondents may be encouraged. The police also must beef up security. Everyone must be subjected to screening during entry into the court complex especially in trial courts such as sessions and family courts.
