Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai
Chennai, Sep 26: Three more girls have approached the all-women Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing sexual abuse allegations against GEM Granites owner R. Veeramani, taking the reported number of complainants in the case to 15.
The development has widened the investigation into allegations involving girls who were minors at the time of the alleged offences.
Veeramani, 85, is currently lodged in Chennai’s Puzhal prison following his arrest under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Two other accused in the case, Shanthi, 61, and her husband Mahendra Simman, 63, have also been arrested. Allegations against all three are being investigated.
Investigators are examining claims that videos allegedly showing Veeramani with minor girls were recorded and subsequently used in an attempt to extort crores of rupees.
The SIT is headed by Thenmozhi, Additional Commissioner in Chennai’s Central Crime Branch. Its members include Disha Mittal, Joint Commissioner for Crimes Against Women and Children, Superintendent of Police Mutharasi and Deputy Commissioner Geethanjali.
The SIT has appealed to other women and girls who may have been affected to come forward and submit complaints.
The fresh complaints have also brought renewed attention to the earlier handling of the case. Police had sought to close the initial POCSO investigation, but a special court rejected the move and ordered further enquiry.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has since directed that action be taken against anyone found to have delayed or suppressed the case.
Political opponents have alleged that the previous DMK government attempted to cover up Veeramani’s alleged offences. The allegation, however, has not been established as a finding against the government.
Former DMK minister S. Regupathy has denied any connection between the party and Veeramani and said those found responsible should face punishment.
The circumstances surrounding the earlier attempt to close the case, including who authorised the move and the reasons behind it, remain under investigation.
The SIT is now focused on recording the statements of the new complainants, examining available evidence and determining whether additional offences or accused persons need to be included in the case.
The identities of the complainants are being withheld in accordance with the requirement to protect the identity of persons involved in allegations of sexual offences against minors.