Supreme Court criticizes Tamil Nadu over 1996 riot compensation delay

The Supreme Court of India has expressed strong displeasure toward the Tamil Nadu government regarding the prolonged delay in providing compensation to victims of the 1996 communal riots in Thoothukudi. The riots resulted in significant damage to businesses and properties, prompting the state to appoint a one-man commission to assess actual losses.

While the commission recommended compensation based on specific losses suffered, the state government issued an order granting a uniform amount of Rs 2 lakh to all affected individuals. This decision was challenged in the Madras High Court, where both a Single Judge and a Division Bench ruled in favor of the compensation levels recommended by the commission. The state subsequently appealed to the Supreme Court.

A bench comprising Justice S. V. N. Bhatti and Justice N. V. Anjaria criticized the state for repeatedly seeking adjournments. Justice Bhatti noted that the matter has remained unresolved for decades and questioned the purpose of appointing commissions if promised relief does not reach those affected. The court declined the state's request for a two-week extension to file a rejoinder, noting that the state has already deposited 50 per cent of the compensation amount.