In the latest filing, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) registered a fresh POCSO case after a woman in Tamil Nadu complained that her minor daughter was sexually abused by Gem Granites chairman R Veeramani. The complaint, lodged through the state’s POCSO portal, names Veeramani as the alleged perpetrator and seeks immediate police action, adding a new layer to the ongoing probe into the granite company’s leader.
The SIT, which has been tracking Veeramani since October last year, had previously opened an investigation into a separate POCSO claim involving a former employee. The latest filing widens the scope of the inquiry, demanding a fresh set of forensic reports and witness statements. "We are compiling all available evidence to build a comprehensive case," said the SIT team’s lead investigator, Ajay Kumar, during a press briefing last week.
The case has escalated into a political battleground. Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, leader of the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), accused the opposition DMK of burying the POCSO case during the previous administration. DMK president MK Stalin countered, calling Vijay’s remarks "political hypocrisy" and demanding transparency. The heated exchanges came ahead of the October 6 Assembly bypoll in Madurantakam, where both parties are vying for seats.
To aid the probe, Tamil Nadu police have launched a dedicated WhatsApp channel—9345319676—where citizens can submit tips or evidence anonymously. The channel is managed by the Special Protection Unit, which will verify claims before forwarding them to the SIT. "We want to bring every piece of information to light," said Police Commissioner S. Ravi in a statement to the media.
The SIT is slated to file its findings with the Madras High Court by the end of next month, after which a magistrate will decide on further action. Meanwhile, the political leaders have pledged to keep the investigation neutral, despite the looming bypolls. The next hearing on the case is scheduled for July 10, 2026, when the court will review the newly filed evidence.