Lawyer Facing Theft Charges Appointed Government Pleader in Tamil Nadu
A practicing advocate booked in a goat theft case has been appointed as a government pleader at the District and Sessions Court in Tirupattur, Tamil Nadu, sparking public criticism. The appointment was made by the state government led by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party.
The advocate, identified as A. Sheik Sulthan, a resident of Vaniyambadi town, had been representing clients at the District Munsif Court in Vaniyambadi for several years. According to police records, a case was registered against him in 2025 after a 65-year-old woman, S. Anjala, reported that one of her goats had been stolen from her shed. CCTV footage allegedly showed Sulthan carrying the goat to a car near the complainant's house.
The police filed a case under Section 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with theft and carries a penalty of up to three years' imprisonment. Sulthan and his alleged accomplice, Thirumalai, are currently facing trial at the Judicial Magistrate-I Court in Vaniyambadi. The next hearing is scheduled for July 22.
Despite the pending criminal case, Sulthan was appointed as a government pleader at the District Court in Tirupattur. In this role, he will represent government officials—such as the District Collector and Revenue Divisional Officer—and departments like Tangedco in civil cases.
Legal experts note that under Indian law, a mere accusation or pending case does not automatically disqualify a person from holding a government position. Disqualification typically occurs only upon conviction. M. Balu, secretary of the Vaniyambadi Bar Association, explained, 'As per law, individuals cannot assume government positions only when they are convicted. Otherwise, such individuals are only suspects. The state government has discretionary powers to appoint such individuals.'
The appointment has drawn criticism from the public and local political circles, with many questioning the government's decision to appoint a person facing theft allegations to a position that involves representing the state.
