Madras High Court Bars T.N. Government from Using Living Personalities’ Names for Schemes

Fast Summary

• Madras High Court Order: The court restrained the Tamil Nadu government from naming new or re-branded public schemes after living personalities and prohibited the use of portraits of former Chief Ministers, ideological leaders, or DMK emblems/flags in scheme advertisements.
• PIL origin: The order stems from a PIL filed by AIADMK MP C.Ve. Shanmugam against the nomenclature of ‘Ungaludan Stalin’ scheme.
• Scope of Restriction: Judges clarified they did not obstruct the implementation of welfare schemes but restricted names and publicity material pending further affidavits.
• Related cases: Similar cases involving such nomenclature will be heard together on August 13 after counter affidavits are filed.
• Supreme Court Reference: The court cited Supreme Court directions (Common Cause case) deeming such naming practices impermissible prima facie.

Indian Opinion analysis

The ruling underscores judicial oversight in ensuring public programs maintain neutrality by avoiding personalized branding linked to political figures or parties. This decision aims to prevent undue promotion or political advantages derived from state welfare initiatives, reinforcing democratic ideals outlined by Supreme Court precedents.While it does not affect actual implementation, it sets a meaningful precedent for separating government functions from personality-driven politics-something that could influence future governance practices across India.

Read more: The Hindu