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2026-09-22 10:50 UTC → 2026-09-22 12:22 UTC ·
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Police in Chennai have arrested The investigation into R Veeramani, the 84-year-old chairman of the Gem Group, following has escalated into a sexual assault investigation. major political controversy in Tamil Nadu. The case was initiated after a volunteer provided a tip to the Central Crime Branch, leading to the discovery of video evidence involving centers on CCTV footage from 2019, allegedly showing the assault sexual abuse of a 13-year-old girl. Investigators allege that Veeramani used a rented house in Thenampet, managed by associates Shanthi and Mahendra Simkan, girl, which was reportedly submitted to facilitate crimes. Authorities claim the Chennai Police Commissioner’s office via a pen drive. Law Minister R. Nirmalkumar has accused brought young girls to the location and facilitated the transfer DMK of girls to other prominent businessmen and VIPs. At least nine victims have come forward attempting to report being sexually assaulted. Following shield Veeramani, questioning why the identification of a survivor from government previously submitted a Scheduled Caste community, law enforcement added charges under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Due to his age closure report in February 2026 that cited insufficient evidence and health, Veeramani has been undergoing video-recorded interrogations inside Puzhal prison. Tamil Nadu an inability to identify the victim. Nirmalkumar asserted that Chief Minister C C. Joseph Vijay has ordered an intensified probe, instructing officials to investigate all angles and ensure all connected individuals are identified and arrested. New developments indicate is monitoring the investigation has expanded case to include potential cover-up attempts and bribery involving officials during ensure impartial action. In recent developments, the previous DMK administration. Authorities have Central Crime Branch (CCB) arrested two associates, Shanthi and Mahendra Simhan, along with Ganesan, a former Gem Granites employee, Ganesan, for after recovering a video allegedly failing to report the crimes. Allegations of massive bribery persist, with reports suggesting involving a ₹70 crore settlement was paid minor from his mobile phone. Investigators are currently examining digital evidence to police, politicians, trace the origin and influential figures to protect Veeramani. To fund these payments, it is alleged that assets worth approximately ₹100 crore on transmission of the East Coast Road (ECR) were sold, footage. The case has become a central flashpoint in ongoing by-election campaigns, with funds allegedly transferred through Ganesan. political leaders trading accusations regarding the handling of sexual assault cases in the state.