Fresh POCSO case filed against granite businessman Veeramani
The Special Investigation Team investigating allegations of child sexual abuse against granite businessman R Veeramani has registered another case under the POCSO Act following a complaint from the mother of a minor girl.
According to Chennai city police, the woman appeared before the SIT on September 28 and submitted her complaint. Investigators subsequently registered a fresh case and began further inquiries.
The all-women SIT was formed on the directions of Tamil Nadu Director General of Police Mahesh Kumar Aggarwal to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the allegations against Veeramani and others.
Police have appealed to anyone possessing information, documents or other evidence connected with the case to approach the investigators. Information can be shared by phone or WhatsApp at 9345319676, with authorities stating that the identities of informants will be kept confidential.
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has also taken suo motu cognisance of allegations involving minor girls aged between 12 and 16. The commission has said that its fact-finding team will travel to Chennai as part of its inquiry.
The SIT is functioning under the supervision of Chennai Police Commissioner A Amalraj. Meanwhile, a POCSO court on Friday extended Veeramani’s judicial custody until October 9. He has remained in custody since August 29.
Veeramani and three others have been arrested in connection with the allegations. The case has triggered widespread demands for strict action, while questions have also been raised over the handling of an earlier complaint reportedly made in November 2024. Following allegations of police inaction, two senior IPS officers, including former Chennai Police Commissioner A Arun, were removed from their positions and placed on compulsory wait.