Chennai, Sep 26: The sexual abuse investigation involving GEM Granites owner R. Veeramani has widened after three more girls approached the all-women Special Investigation Team (SIT), taking the reported number of complainants to 15 and intensifying scrutiny of allegations involving minors.
Veeramani, 85, is currently lodged in Chennai’s Puzhal prison following his arrest under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The case also involves Shanthi, 61, and her husband Mahendra Simman, 63, who have been arrested. Allegations against all three remain under investigation.
The SIT is now tasked with recording the accounts of the newly approached complainants, examining available evidence and determining whether the investigation should include additional offences or accused persons.
Investigators are also examining allegations that videos involving Veeramani and minors were recorded and subsequently used in an alleged attempt to extort crores of rupees. The allegations concerning the recordings and their alleged use remain part of the ongoing investigation.
The SIT is headed by Thenmozhi, an 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 team has appealed to other women and girls who may have been affected to come forward and lodge complaints. Their identities are being withheld because the allegations concern sexual offences against minors.
The expanding number of complainants has also brought renewed attention to the earlier handling of the case. Police had previously sought to close the initial POCSO investigation, but a special court rejected the move and ordered further enquiry.
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has subsequently called for action against anyone found to have delayed or suppressed the case.
Political opponents have alleged that the previous DMK government covered up Veeramani’s alleged offences. That claim has not been established as a finding. Former DMK minister S. Regupathy has rejected any connection between the party and Veeramani and said those responsible should face punishment.
A key question now before investigators is who authorised the earlier attempt to close the case and the reasons behind it. The SIT’s continuing inquiry is expected to examine that aspect alongside the fresh complaints and other evidence.
With three additional complainants coming forward, the investigation has expanded both in the number of allegations being examined and in the questions surrounding the earlier course of the POCSO case. The SIT will determine the next steps based on the accounts and evidence gathered during the probe.
