HC Orders DGP to Submit Report on Plea Seeking Protection for 108 Ambulance Staff

Rapid Summary

• The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court directed the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP) to file a report on a petition seeking police protection for 108 ambulance pilots,crew members,and Emergency Medical Technicians across Tamil Nadu.
• The petition was filed by M. Erulandi,State General Secretary of Tamil Nadu 108 Emergency Vehicle Tholizhalar Munnetra Sangam.
• It cited two incidents involving threats and assaults on ambulance crews during AIADMK General secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami’s campaign:

– On August 18 in Vellore district, Mr. Palaniswami allegedly threatened an ambulance pilot for passing through his campaign route without carrying a patient.
– On August 24 in Tiruchi district, AIADMK functionaries reportedly assaulted an ambulance crew who were responding to a medical emergency at another meeting; their vehicle was damaged.

• Concerns about ongoing threats to ambulance workers were raised with requests for protection until after the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections in 2026.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The directive by the madurai Bench highlights critical issues surrounding public service safety during politically charged events. Ambulances are essential components of emergency healthcare infrastructure,and interruptions or intimidation can have direct consequences on patients’ lives.Ensuring their uninterrupted operation is especially crucial in states like Tamil Nadu that experience heightened political activity ahead of elections.

The allegations against AIADMK leaders might point to challenges in balancing political campaigns with civic responsibilities and public service access-an issue policymakers will need to address urgently. If proven true, such incidents could set concerning precedents jeopardizing safety during high-stakes political environments leading up to elections. By ordering the DGP’s response and seeking protective measures proactively until election completion, the judiciary underscores its role as guarantor of citizen welfare amid potential institutional lapses.

Read More: Link