Date:23/09/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/09/23/stories/2008092359350500.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Short circuit, sabotage ruled out

Special Correspondent

Fire accident at Saravana Stores in T. Nagar

Government makes submission before High Court
Judge grants bail to three persons

CHENNAI: Electrical short circuit and sabotage have been ruled out as the cause of the fire at Saravana Stores on Ranganathan Street in T. Nagar here on September 1, the government has submitted before the Madras High Court.

During the hearing on the bail plea of Yogarathinam (70) and S. Rajarathinam (60), owners, and Shanmugadurai, the government advocate submitted that the reason for the fire could not be identified till date.

Granting bail to the trio, Justice R. Regupathi said though certain prima facie material were available showing that the fourth and fifth floors of the building had been constructed in violation of the rules and regulations, it had been submitted that writ petitions had been filed for regularising the construction concerned, wherein, interim orders had been passed. Under such circumstances, he was of the view that the petitioners could be enlarged on bail.

The Judge ordered that the three be released on bail on each of them executing a bond for Rs.25,000 with two sureties each for a like sum to the satisfaction of the Magistrate concerned. While Mr. Yogarathinam and Mr. Rajarathinam should report before the police daily at 10 a.m. for a week and, thereafter, as and when required, Mr. Shanmugadurai should report before the police everyday at 10 a.m. until further orders.