The Special Judge S Padma of the Chennai POCSO Court rejected bail applications filed by Shanti and her husband Mahendra Simhan on Aug 28, 2026, after the couple’s arrest on the same day with Veeramani’s aide Ganeshan.
The court held that the case remains in its infancy, citing unexamined electronic devices and unidentified survivors. It ruled that the accused had received ₹24.63 crore from Veeramani to destroy evidence, with ₹2 crore allegedly routed to Mahendra Simhan.
The defence argued that the arrests were improperly conducted and that the accused had already been questioned by police, demanding release. Prosecutors countered that the couple could influence witnesses and flee abroad, insisting on continued custody.
Politically, the case has sparked a feud between the ruling AIADMK and the opposition DMK. Former Chief Minister M K Stalin warned that no position shields one from punishment, while the DMK blamed the TVK for delaying arrests. The high‑profile nature of the granite baron has amplified media scrutiny.
A Special Investigation Team was constituted on Sept 25, with its first report due Oct 1. The Madras High Court rejected a petition to transfer the probe to the CBI, citing the SIT’s nascent investigation and granting the court a hearing on Oct 7.
While the accused remain in custody, police have collected statements from potential survivors, though the identities of the alleged victims have not yet been disclosed. A 12‑year‑old girl who was reportedly abused is waiting for the outcome of the investigation, her family fearing intimidation.
The next milestone will be the SIT’s submission of its preliminary findings on Oct 1, after which the court will decide whether to extend custody or consider bail. The case underscores a broader debate over judicial independence and the handling of high‑profile abuse allegations.