The Madras High Court denied permission today for the police personnel to form unions and associations.

The plea was filed by Grade-I Constable Senthil Kumar of Thirumangalam, Madurai district, seeking permission to form an association of members serving in the police force. The Government of Tamil Nadu had opposed the plea, stating that members of the police force already have several welfare and redressal forums.

The government also claimed that the members of the police department cannot claim that they have a right to form associations. The High Court had reserved the orders for July 13.

The orders were passed today by Justice M Jaichandren, who refused permission and dismissed the plea.

Meanwhile, security in the Madras High Court complex was stepped up after a lawyer was attacked with sickle by his grown-up son, over family disputes.