[REVISION HISTORY]

R. Veeramani POCSO investigation expands to eight cases

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What changed

2026-11-02 06:23 UTC → 2026-11-08 03:35 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The investigation into R. Veeramani, the 84-year-old founder of Gem Granites, has expanded significantly, with authorities now registering eight cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The probe, revitalized after a Special POCSO Court rejected a police closure report, has seen 12 victims come forward with allegations of sexual abuse. Key developments include the arrest of Veeramani, his associates M. Shanthi and Mahendra Simhan, a former employee Ganesan, a manager Sakthivel, and three drivers accused of transporting minors to abuse sites. Authorities have also issued Look Out Circulars (LOC) against five suspects to prevent them from fleeing the country. Investigators have interrogated Veeramani’s daughter, Archana, regarding his alleged criminal activities and financial maneuvers. A four-member all-woman Special Investigation Team (SIT) is leading the probe, which includes examining allegations that Veeramani used a foundation for female students as a front to identify victims. The investigation has also scrutinized senior IPS officers, such as former Chennai Police Commissioner A. Arun, regarding the handling of prior complaints. The case remains a major political flashpoint in Tamil Nadu, involving accusations of bribery and cover-ups between the DMK and other political entities. While a petition sought to transfer the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Madras High Court denied the request, ruling that the SIT probe is in its initial stages. Recent developments show police have invoked the Goondas Act against Veeramani, Shanthi, and Mahendra Simhan. Additionally, authorities are seeking to freeze the passport of N. Prakash, who is accused of assisting Veeramani in covering up crimes and has reportedly fled the country. In the latest developments, the SIT recorded a statement from a new minor girl, a former witness in an existing case, who alleges she was also sexually harassed by Veeramani.

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