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NHRC Takes Cognizance Of Complaint Against Loyola College & Don Bosco Paris; Directs Ministry of External Affairs To Probe Education Fraud

By
The Commune
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loyola college don bosco paris rti

In a major blow to the credibility of two prominent Catholic institutions, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has officially taken cognizance of a serious human rights violation complaint against Loyola College, Chennai and its foreign partner, Don Bosco International Media Academy (DBIMA), Paris.

The Legal Rights Protection Forum (LRPF), a legal advocacy group, had filed a formal complaint with the University Grants Commission (UGC), Ministry of Education, and the University of Madras against Loyola College, Chennai, accusing the institution of running an unauthorized diploma program in filmmaking in collaboration with a foreign institute, thereby violating key higher education regulations and potentially endangering the visa status of Indian students abroad.

The complaint—based on a detailed Right to Information (RTI) reply—alleges that Loyola College ran an unapproved foreign diploma programme in collaboration with Don Bosco, Paris, without seeking the mandatory clearance from the University of Madras or the University Grants Commission (UGC).

According to the NHRC proceedings, students were sent abroad on student visas obtained through false representations, raising the possibility of deportation and legal consequences. The complaint further states that this constitutes cross-border trafficking disguised as education, causing severe financial and emotional harm to the affected students.

Taking cognizance under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the NHRC has:

– Directed the Registrar of the University of Madras and the Chairman of the UGC to submit an Action Taken Report within two weeks

– Forwarded the case to the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, for further investigation and necessary diplomatic action

– The proceedings note that the allegations “prima facie seem to be serious violations of the human rights of the victim.”
The complaint also seeks:
• Immediate student protection
• Refund of fees collected
• Prosecution of those responsible for misrepresentation and educational fraud

The NHRC Bench, presided over by Hon’ble Member Shri Priyank Kanoongo, has attached a copy of the original complaint and instructed the Registry to issue formal notices.

This case comes amidst growing allegations of misuse of foreign collaborations by Loyola College, which has already been in the spotlight for corruption, money laundering via its alumni network, and unexplained links to controversial figures in Tamil Nadu’s political and entertainment spheres.

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Dravidian Model: CM Stalin Virtually Inaugurates Unfinished Urban Health Center In Mayiladuthurai

By
The Commune
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[Image Credit: ABP Nadu]

In a move that has stirred widespread controversy, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin virtually inaugurated an allegedly incomplete urban primary health center in Mayiladuthurai, raising eyebrows and triggering questions about political urgency ahead of the upcoming elections.

On 3 July 2025, CM Stalin, from Chennai, officially launched several public infrastructure projects under the Health and Family Welfare Department via video conference. Among them was an urban primary health center near Rajan Thottam in Mayiladuthurai district  a facility still under construction at the time of inauguration.

The health center, spread over 5,544 square meters and built at an estimated cost of ₹1.2 crore, includes a ground and first floor with facilities such as a maternity ward, delivery room, outpatient area, pharmacy, lab, X-ray, and scan rooms.

However, local reports revealed that essential civil works including flooring, electrical wiring, plumbing, and stair finishing were still pending. Construction materials like tiles and stones lay scattered across the site during the inauguration.

Old banners were reportedly used to block unfinished windows, and mats were placed over incomplete staircases to give the appearance of readiness. This drew sharp reactions from the public, with concerns about safety and suitability for patient care in such a state.

Residents Question the Urgency & Safety

In response, the residents questioned the haste behind inaugurating a clearly unfinished health center. “Why risk public safety just to hold a ceremony? What’s the urgency?” asked several locals, voicing frustration and concern.

Typically, buildings constructed by the Public Works Department are handed over only after full completion and inspection. This protocol, they say, was not followed. The incident has prompted speculation, “Was the Chief Minister misled about the project’s status? Or was the inauguration deliberately rushed with elections around the corner?”

Despite the controversy, the event went ahead, with Mayiladuthurai District Collector H.S. Srikanth, MLA S. Rajakumar, and other key officials including Municipal Council Chairman Selvaraj and Deputy Director of Public Health Dr. Ajith Prabhu Kumar participating in the lighting of the ceremonial lamp to mark the opening.

(With Inputs From ABP Nadu)

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Nikitha, The ‘Absconding’ Complainant In Ajithkumar Custodial Death Case, Allegedly Spotted In Coimbatore

By
The Commune
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nikitha custodial death

Following the custodial death of 27-year-old temple security guard Ajithkumar in Thirubhuvanam, and after the court’s sharp reprimand and the suspension of involved police officers, fresh controversy has emerged around Nikitha, the woman at the center of the original theft complaint that led to Ajith’s arrest.

While police had claimed that Nikitha, who had accused Ajithkumar of stealing gold jewelry, was absconding and untraceable, a shocking twist has now deepened public suspicion. According to locals from the Pollachi area, they spotted a woman believed to be Nikitha and immediately alerted the 100 police control room. They were allegedly instructed to detain her until police arrived. However, even after waiting for over two hours, no officers showed up. Eventually, the police reportedly called back and asked them to let her go raising serious concerns among the public about possible influence or protection at play.

Amid ongoing complaints surfacing against Nikitha, rumors are circulating that she has been moving from town to town to evade arrest. A recent video allegedly showing her seated at a tea shop in Coimbatore has gone viral, though its authenticity has yet to be confirmed.

Reports claim that locals in the Coimbatore-Pollachi area recognized her, confronted her, and temporarily detained her before she left in a car with her mother and a driver. Eyewitnesses say the vehicle was headed toward Coimbatore. A hotel employee reportedly captured video footage of the incident, and audio clips of conversations with the police during the event are now circulating online.

Police picking up the call said, “I’m speaking from Mahalingapuram Police Station. What’s the problem?”
The complainant said, “Sir, it’s nothing, sir. This… The murder that happened in Tiruppuvanam, right, sir?”
Police replied, “Okay.”
The complainant continued, “A lady had complained and the police officers beat him. They said (she) was absconding, absconding in the paper and on TV. We had them locked up at the Amudhasurabhi hotel, sir. When we called 100 and told them, they said to lock the vehicle. We kept [it] locked for two hours. Then they told us to release them, sir. Now the vehicle is heading towards Coimbatore.”
Police questioned back, “Who told you to hold them up?”
The complainant replied, “Sir, my brother stopped them after calling 100. Just a moment, please stay on the line, I’ll put them on conference.”
The police replied, “Let me check and come to your line (contact you again).”

In another audio that was circulated, between the complainant’s brother and a person in the control room, the operator said, “Hello sir, Police Control Room, sir.”
The complainant’s brother Veerakumar replied, “Yes, tell me, Veerakumar sir.”
The operator said, “Sir, Suresh gave your number, sir. Like this…”
Veerakumar responded saying, “Yes, sir. In Pollachi, we had locked those involved in the Dinesh Kumar (misquoted victim’s name) murder case.”
The operator questioned, “Yes, sir. Did you tell them there were two people?“
Veerakumar replied, “Yes, sir. I called Police Control. I called 100, they called the local station, sir.”
The operator said, “Okay, sir.”
Veerakumar continued, “Hold them… we holded them at 12 o’clock. We kept them here for two hours. Finally, they told us to release them, sir.”
The operator asked, “Did they say to release them? Who said that, sir?”
Veerakumar said, “Sir, the person from the Control Room, sir. Wait, I’ll put them on conference. Just a minute, sir.”
The operator asked, “Sir, just a minute. Tell me the address where you saw.”
Veerakumar replied, “At Amudhasurabhi, sir, Pollachi.”
The operator again confirmed, “Where in Pollachi, sir?”
Veerakumar asserted, “Yes, at Amudhasurabhi, Pollachi, sir. Now the vehicle is coming towards Coimbatore, sir.”

Despite these developments, Nikitha had released a video statement just a day earlier, denying she was on the run. In her statement, she said, “They say I’m absconding, but I’m at home and cooperating with the investigation. My mother and I are deeply saddened by Ajithkumar’s death. On the day of the incident, we parked at the Madapuram Kali temple. The guard who brought a wheelchair for my mother asked for ₹500. We argued, and I eventually gave ₹100. Later, we visited the scan center. We had removed our jewelry and kept it in a bag in the car. When it went missing, we filed a complaint. None of the senior officers are related to me. The allegations against me are false.”

Though she insisted she was at home and willing to appear for questioning, conflicting reports claim she is actively evading the authorities by moving across locations. The latest sighting in Coimbatore has only intensified public skepticism and calls for clarity and accountability.

(With inputs from One India Tamil)

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Madras High Court Raps TN Police For Inaction In Ponmudi Hate Speech Against Hindus Case, Warns Of CBI Takeover

By
The Commune
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dmk ponmudi madras high court

The Madras High Court has issued a strong warning that if the Tamil Nadu police continue to hesitate in investigating the numerous complaints filed against former Higher Education Minister K. Ponmudi over his controversial remarks on women and the Saiva-Vaishnava traditions, the court will be compelled to transfer the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The matter came up for hearing on 3 July 2025 before Justice Velmurugan, who was presiding over a suo motu case taken up by the court in response to Ponmudi’s speech. The judge expressed concern over police inaction, noting that complaints lodged at three police stations had already been closed on the grounds that Ponmudi’s remarks did not qualify as hate speech.

During the hearing, Advocate General P.S. Raman informed the court that despite those closures, an additional 112 complaints have since been filed across Tamil Nadu, and investigations into them remain pending. He also noted that Ponmudi’s statements referred to an incident that allegedly occurred 60 years ago.

Justice Velmurugan sharply criticised the former minister’s choice of words, questioning the need for such remarks when “there are so many other things to talk about.” He emphasised that a public representative should be cautious in speech and mindful of the limits set by reasonable restrictions on free expression. “Even when referencing events from 50 years ago, one could choose to highlight positive contributions,” the judge observed.

The court has adjourned the matter to 8 July 2025 for further hearing.

What Ponmudi Said

In April 2025, a Ponmudi went viral on social media igniting widespread controversy and condemnation across social media platforms, with many calling out the then-minister for his offensive remarks targeting Shaivite and Vaishnavite communities. The video, which surfaced on X, captured Ponmudi making a crude analogy involving a prostitute to mock the religious practices of these Hindu sects, drawing sharp criticism for its insensitivity and vulgarity. In the video, Ponmudi recounted a supposed interaction between a man and a prostitute, where the woman asks the man if he is a Shaivite or a Vaishnavite. According to Ponmudi, the prostitute explains that Shaivite means “lying down position” (referencing the horizontal tilak worn by Shaivites) while a Vaishnavite means a “standing position” (referencing the vertical tilak worn by Vaishnavites).

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“Who The Hell Even Understands That?”: Congress Ally DMK Min EV Velu Mocks Sanskrit Mantras Chanted During Hindu Wedding Rituals

By
The Commune
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DMK Minister of Public Works EV Velu, alias Ethirajalu Vajjaravelu on Friday, 4 July 2025 sharply criticised the Union government for what he described as excessive financial support for Sanskrit while sidelining Tamil, a language he argued is widely spoken and deeply rooted in everyday life.

Speaking at a public event in Vellore, Velu mocked Sanskrit chants used in Hindu wedding ceremonies, questioning their relevance in modern society.

“Who the hell even understands that?” Velu said. “Can two lovers confess their love in Sanskrit? They can do so in Tamil – anbe aaruyire,” he added, asserting that Tamil is a living language spoken and understood by all sections of society. Then he mocked the Sanskrit shlokas and said, “Shuklaam….. if you go to a wedding, they’d say, Kannika daanam samarpayami, Godaanam samarpayami, who the hell understands that? Our guy will take out some notes without understanding what he said.”

He pointed out that the Centre had allocated ₹2,500 crore for Sanskrit development but just ₹167 crore for Tamil, despite Tamil Nadu being the second-largest contributor to GST revenue in the country.

“By taking our money via GST, they are using it for Sanskrit development. Does anyone even understand Sanskrit? We can say ‘I love you’ in Tamil. If you go to a marriage function, they speak in Sanskrit. Who the hell even understands that?” Velu said.

“Why spend ₹2,500 crore for development of Sanskrit language that no one understands?” he asked, accusing the Union government of prioritising Sanskrit—a language spoken by a limited section of society, while neglecting Tamil.

He also stressed Tamil Nadu’s leadership in education and other fields, saying the state deserved better recognition and investment in its cultural and linguistic legacy. “We need to protect our language,” he said.

Velu’s remarks follow a growing chorus of criticism from the DMK-led government in Tamil Nadu, which has accused the BJP-led Union government of linguistic bias.

Made Derogatory Statements On People From Bihar

At a public meeting in June 2023, speaking about the Dravidian Model, EV Velu said “The DMK is running a Dravidian model government. If you ask a DMK man if he ministership or social justice is important, they would choose the latter. Tamil Nadu is one of the fastest-growing states in India. No one from here goes to Bihar in search of work. On the contrary, many people from Bihar come here for work. Governor (RN Ravi) has also come here from Bihar.”

Made Separatist Statements

In a video that went viral in August 2023, DMK Minister EV Velu can be heard saying, “What is the state today? The word India never had any impact on us. When has India had an impact on us? I’m making an open statement. There wasn’t any such impact on us. I’m talking about some time ago. Where did we have an impact? There was no impact. India is someplace in North India. We belong to Tamil Nadu. If possible, we have to create a Dravida Nadu. Our thought process was going in that direction.”

Said Tamil Was Under Threat, Taught Hindi In His School

In February 2025, the Telugu-speaking EV Velu drew criticism for apparent contradictions in his stance on language politics. While vocally opposing the imposition of Hindi and promoting Tamil’s supremacy, recently declaring at a literary festival that a 4,000-year-old language like Tamil should not be overshadowed by a 400-year-old one like Hindi, Velu owns a CBSE-affiliated private school where Hindi is mandatory. His Jeeva Velu International School in Tiruvannamalai follows the central curriculum, despite the DMK’s consistent opposition to the three-language policy. Critics highlight this as a hypocrisy, especially as the DMK frequently accuses the Centre of linguistic imposition.

Anti-Hindu Statements Of MK Stalin

It is not just Velu who makes such derogatory statements. Chief Minister MK Stalin also has a history of doing it.

Insulting Hindu Rituals

MK Stalin himself while speaking at a Muslim wedding function had said that if one were to look at the meaning of the mantras chanted during Hindu wedding ceremonies, it would turn out to be ‘disgusting’.

Not Wishing For Hindu Festivals

For a very long time, MK Stalin has got into the habit of not wishing Hindus for important festivals such as Deepavali, Ayudha Puja/Vijayadasami, Vinayagar Chathurthi, Krishna Jayanti etc but would without fail wish Christians and Muslims for their respective festivals.

Peddling Hate Against Brahmins & Sanskrit

In February 2025, Stalin reignited the anti-Hindi debate, alleging that the National Education Policy promotes Hindi at the cost of regional languages. In a post on X, he claimed Hindi had overwhelmed languages like Bhojpuri, Maithili, Awadhi, and others, warning of a cultural erasure. In a letter to party cadre, Stalin declared, “Hindi is the mask, Sanskrit is the hidden face,” including an image suggesting Brahmins were behind Sanskrit imposition. Critics argued that Stalin was promoting anti-Brahmin sentiment under the pretext of opposing Hindi. Meanwhile, DMK-linked schools continue teaching Hindi and have adopted aspects of NEP 2020, drawing accusations of hypocrisy.

Endorsed Book Peddling Hindu Hatred

In October 2021, MK Stalin felicitated a group of YouTubers who reportedly raised funds for oxygen equipment at Tiruvannamalai Government Hospital. Among them were Avudaiappan (Behindwoods), Madan Gowri, self-styled ‘fact-checker’ Iyan Karthikeyan, and former News18 Tamil Nadu anchor Senthilvel, now running Tamil Kelvi. During the event, Senthilvel presented a book titled Veda Fanatic India by Pozhilan, featuring a cover with a caricature of a Brahmin priest and a burning map of India.

The book’s imagery and title sparked criticism, with many accusing the DMK and its affiliates of promoting anti-Hindu and specifically anti-Brahmin narratives.

DMK Govt Banned Dharmapuram Aadheenam’s Patttinapravesam

In May 2022, pandering to the rabid anti-Hindu outfits like Dravida Kazhagam, the MK Stalin-led DMK Government in Tamil Nadu banned the age-old Pattina Pravesam ceremony of the Dharmapuram Adheenam.

Pattina Pravesam ceremony is a tradition where Hindu devotees carry the seer of the Dharmapuram Adheenam in a palanquin.

After opposition from Hindu organizations and the BJP, the DMK had to reverse the ban.

Demolition Of Temples In The Name Of Clearing Encroachments

Several temples have been razed down under the garb of ‘clearing encroachments’ pinnning it on the High Court.

In January 2022, an Anjaneya temple in Varadharajapuram, Mudichur, in the Kancheepuram district, was ordered to be demolished despite heavy opposition from local residents and devotees. The Vasudevar Temple in Sulur, Coimbatore, has been demolished. Seven temples have been demolished in Kumarasamy Nagar, Coimbatore. One of the temples is said to be over one hundred years old.

A Sivan Temple in Sriperumbudur was demolished because it was built on government land.

Platforming And Promoting Anti-Hindu Dravidian Stockists

Kannabiran Ravishankar who goes by the handle @kryes on Twitter, is the Editor-in-Chief of Dravida Pozhil, which according to its website is “a quarterly, bi-lingual, academic research journal with focus on Dravidian studies”. He is a high decibel foul-mouthed Dravidian Stockist promoted and platformed by the DK-DMK ecosystem. He recently made social media news for falsifying his degree from UC Berkeley. Kannabiran is known for distorting Hindu scriptures and fomenting hatred against Tamil Brahmin community with vile casteist abuses. He has made several derogatroy and vulgar remarks against Hindu Gods. Many of his tweets have foul language objectifying Tamil Brahmin women. He had even used private photos of Tamil brahmin families including that of children to spew the Dravidian ‘anti-Brahmin’ vitriol.

He was seen giving CM MK Stalin a book, appearing frequently in the Dravidian Professionals Forum, an organisation founded and headed by DMK  finance minister PTR Palanivel Thiagarajan, being close friends with DMK MP Senthil Kumar, and receiving a doctorate of letters from the Periyar Maniammai Institute of Science and Technology in front of Dravida Kazhagam (DK) President K. Veeramani.

DMK Govt Created By Christians Said Stalin

CM Stalin himself had said that his government was formed because of Christians while participating in the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Church of South India in September 2021.

“The government that is there in Tamil Nadu today is one that has been created by you. I won’t call it as my government. This is our government.”, CM Stalin said.

In his speech at the event, CM Stalin hailed the Church of South India saying that the Church was a boon to Tamil Nadu which played a big role in building educational institutions and hospitals.

He said that the Church today functions as a movement of ‘social work’ for the Tamil Nadu people.

(With inputs from India Today)

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Dravidian Model Bus: Town Bus Tyre Nearly Falls Off Mid-Trip; Major Bus Accident Narrowly Averted Due To Driver Alertness

By
The Commune
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town bus accident

A potentially catastrophic accident was narrowly avoided in Manamadurai, Sivaganga district, after a government town bus’s rear tyre began to detach mid-journey. The incident occurred yesterday when a town bus, carrying passengers from the new bus stand in Manamadurai to Kuvalaveli village, began veering to one side near Somanathapuram, close to Muthanendal.

Sensing something was wrong, the driver immediately brought the bus to a halt. Upon inspection, he discovered that a rear tyre was about to fall off. The driver quickly evacuated all passengers and arranged for alternative transport. Relieved commuters later remarked that a serious accident might have occurred if the issue had gone unnoticed.

Government bus drivers in the region voiced concern over the worsening condition of the public transport fleet in Sivaganga district. “Most town buses are in a dilapidated state—punctured, rusted, and practically ready for the scrapyard,” a driver said. He added that a shortage of trained mechanics and critical spare parts means many buses are operating with unresolved issues. When faults arise, disciplinary actions are often directed at drivers and conductors instead of addressing systemic failures.

They urged the Tamil Nadu government and the state’s Transport Minister to replace the aging, damaged fleet with new vehicles to prevent future tragedies.

Similar Scare on National Highway

This recent scare follows another narrowly avoided tragedy on 20 June 2025 near Idaikal, along the Thirumangalam–Kollam National Highway. A TNSTC bus, operated by the Srivilliputhur depot in Virudhunagar district, suffered a mechanical failure when its rear axle and both tyres broke off while in motion.

The bus, driven by 52-year-old Sankaran from Vathirayiruppu, was traveling from Madurai to Courtallam with 87 passengers on board. Witnesses reported that the vehicle began vibrating violently before the driver noticed something wrong. He promptly reduced speed and safely brought the bus to a stop, preventing what could have been a disastrous outcome.

Four passengers sustained minor injuries, while others escaped unscathed. The accident caused temporary traffic congestion on the highway, highlighting ongoing concerns about the maintenance of the state’s public transport fleet.

(With inputs from Dinamalar)

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From Allegations Of Job Scams To Marriage Fraud: Meet “Dr” Nikitha, The Woman Behind The Complaint That Led To Custodial Death Of Temple Security Guard Ajithkumar

By
The Commune
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ajithkumar custodial death case nikitha video statement

As outrage grows over the custodial death of 27-year-old temple security guard Ajithkumar in Thirubhuvanam, attention has turned to the woman whose complaint allegedly led to the fatal police assault: Dr Nikitha, a faculty member at a government college in Dindigul. Initially assumed to be a medical doctor, it was later revealed that she was a Ph.D holder.

Ever since the news of the custodial death broke, Nikitha and her mother were absconding and untraceable – for about five days. Her name surfaced not only in the police brutality case but also in earlier complaints of misconduct, abuse of power, and alleged job-related fraud.

Academic Role Under Scrutiny

Now fresh revelations have emerged about Nikitha casting further doubt on her conduct and accountability as a public servant. Nikitha served as the Head of the Botany Department at M.E.M. Government Women’s Arts College in Dindigul. It is alleged that she has not reported to work for the past five days and is currently absconding. However, her tenure there was far from controversy-free. In 2024, a group of students from the department submitted a formal complaint to the Dindigul District Collector, accusing her of continuous verbal harassment and mental abuse. The students alleged that the toxic academic environment created by Nikitha was adversely affecting their education and well-being.

In response, the District Collector reportedly forwarded the complaint to the college administration with a recommendation for disciplinary action. However, no action appears to have been taken. Instead, Nikitha allegedly used her influence to retain her position at the institution, continuing to work at the same college despite the unresolved accusations. Sources suggest that the students’ grievances were not addressed adequately, and mental distress among them persisted.

Allegations Of Government Job Fraud

As the custodial death case was unfolding, victims of Nikitha’s accused her of orchestrating a long-running government job scam with her family. Multiple victims have come forward accusing Nikitha, her parents Sivagami and Jayaperumal (retired government officials), brother Kaviarasu, and relatives of defrauding them of lakhs – total amounting to crores – under false promises of government jobs between 2010 and 2017. Victims include retired employees, educators, and jobseekers who mortgaged assets and borrowed at interest to pay sums ranging from ₹7 to ₹80 lakhs. The family allegedly insisted on cash payments in ₹500 notes and later denied receiving them. Threats, absconding after complaints, and political name-dropping were reportedly used to silence victims. An FIR from 2011 named Nikitha and her family. Victims say this scam ruined their lives financially and emotionally, drawing parallels with the recent custodial death, which they claim follows the same pattern of manipulation and abuse.

Marriage Fraud

Thirumaran, founder of the South Indian Forward Bloc and former husband of Nikitha, accused her and her family of long-standing fraud, legal extortion, and abuse of bureaucratic influence. Speaking to the press, he alleged that Nikitha had a pattern of entering short-lived marriages, filing false dowry cases, and extorting large sums of money, claims he said applied to at least five men over two decades. He linked this pattern to the recent custodial death of Ajithkumar, asserting that Nikitha’s false complaint triggered the fatal police action. Thirumaran also alleged that Nikitha’s parents, allegedly a former DSP and Sub-Collector used their influence to shield the family from legal consequences. He called for Nikitha and her family to be treated as prime accused in the Ajithkumar case, asserting that the real root of the tragedy lies in false allegations and systemic manipulation, not merely police brutality.

The Ajithkumar Case: A Tipping Point

Ajithkumar, the 27-year-old temple security guard whose custodial torture and subsequent death came after Nikitha’s complaint over her allegedly missing jewels, was reported to have had over 50 brutal injuries, including deep wounds, head trauma, and cigarette burns—indicating prolonged torture.

Eyewitnesses had earlier alleged beatings with iron rods. Amid pressure, five police officers were arrested, a DSP suspended, and the district SP transferred. The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court raised concerns about a fair state-led probe, prompting the official CBI takeover.

A video statement amid the developments by Nikitha raised further questions about her role. In the video, she recounts how Ajith helped with her mother’s wheelchair and later parked her car after she handed him the key. She narrated a sequence of events that were different from what was originally shared in the media. However, her narrative acknowledges that the key passed through multiple hands, yet only Ajith was accused and brutally assaulted. She also omitted reported details of an argument over ₹500, allegedly the trigger for the complaint. With no conclusive evidence linking Ajith to the missing jewellery, and inconsistencies in her account, public suspicion has intensified. Critics and past complainants have renewed calls for Nikitha to be named a formal accused and investigated alongside the police.

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Dravidian Model: Custodial Assault Video Surfaces From Theni; 5 Officials Transferred

By
The Commune
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custodial assault theni

Even as public outrage over the custodial death of 27-year-old temple security guard Ajithkumar in Thirubhuvanam continues to simmer, another disturbing case of alleged custodial assault has emerged from Theni district.

A viral CCTV video from Devadanapatti police station shows C. Ramesh (34), an auto driver, being beaten by police personnel after being brought in for causing a public nuisance. The footage has raised fresh concerns about unchecked police excesses across Tamil Nadu.

The incident occurred on 14 January 2025, when Ramesh was taken into custody near Arisikadai bus stop in Devadanapatti following complaints from residents about his disorderly conduct. Police claimed he was drunk and causing a public disturbance. After being taken to the station, Ramesh was allegedly caned by officers. A case was later registered under Section 296 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and he was released on station bail.

The video of the assault came to light through an unexpected route. A lawyer who had visited the station on the same day for an unrelated matter filed a Right to Information (RTI) request seeking CCTV footage to confirm his presence there.

A month later, when he reviewed the footage provided by the district police, it showed Ramesh being assaulted by officers inside the police station. The lawyer shared the footage online on 2 July, and it quickly went viral in the wake of the Thirubhuvanam custodial death.

Reacting to the growing controversy, Theni district police released an official statement on 2 July 2025 denying that custodial violence or harassment had occurred. The release stated, “The policemen were constrained to use force to control Ramesh as he was in an inebriated state at the time of his arrest.”

An inquiry has been initiated under the supervision of an Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), and officials assured that appropriate action will follow based on the findings. Meanwhile, District Superintendent of Police R. Shiva Prasad ordered the immediate transfer of five personnel involved in the incident Inspector K. Abdulla, Special Sub-Inspector Shiva Sambu, Head Constable S. Pandian, and Constables Marichamy and Valirajan to the Armed Reserve (AR) unit, pending the outcome of the inquiry.

(With inputs from The New Indian Express)

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Complaint Filed Against ‘Digital Rights’ NGO SFLC Over Allegations of Foreign Funding And Financial Irregularities

By
The Commune
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sflc foreign funding complaint digital rights ngo

The Software Freedom Law Center, India (SFLC.in), a ‘digital rights’ organization, has come under scrutiny following a formal complaint raising concerns about its funding sources, legal operations, and involvement in politically sensitive matters.

SFLC’s office bearers, as per NGO Darpan records, include President Rahul De, and Executive Members Venkatesh Hariharan and Satish Babu.

The complaint filed by NGO watchdog, Legal Rights Protection Forum, has alleged that SFLC is not registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010 (FCRA), and yet continues to receive significant funding from foreign sources, including U.S.-based organizations. Particular concern was expressed over donations from the Open Society Institute (OSI), affiliated with the Open Society Foundations (OSF), which has previously been placed on a watchlist by India’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

The complaint urges the MHA to initiate a detailed investigation into SFLC’s current FCRA compliance status, its foreign funding channels, and the use of those funds, particularly in activities that could influence Indian policy or public opinion.

Citing SFLC’s FY 2023-24 audit reports, the complaint notes that the organization declared ₹38 lakh in donations, with ₹28 lakh allocated as consultancy fees for 14 employees. The average compensation approximately ₹19,000 per month per employee, has raised suspicions of possible underreporting or alternative funding mechanisms. Authorities have been asked to examine SFLC’s financial records under the Income Tax Act and FCRA for potential discrepancies.

Questions have also been raised regarding Mishi Choudhary, a U.S. citizen and founder of SFLC, who has been involved in litigation in Indian courts. While she is reportedly enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi, the complainant has requested the Ministry of Law and Justice to verify her compliance with the Advocates Act, 1961, which limits the practice of law in India by foreign nationals unless duly qualified.

SFLC has participated in various legal challenges involving contentious issues such as internet shutdowns in Jammu & Kashmir, the Citizenship Amendment Act protests, and the 2020–21 farmer protests. The organization also challenged the blocking of the Briar messaging platform, a petition that was dismissed by the Delhi High Court, which cited national security concerns.

The complaint argues that SFLC’s legal and advocacy work in such matters may align with foreign policy interests and thus potentially interfere with India’s internal affairs. It has called on the MHA to assess whether these actions breach laws relating to national security and public order.

Additionally, SFLC’s involvement in commentary on the ANI v. Wikipedia case has drawn attention due to an undisclosed familial connection. Ms. Mishi Choudhary’s brother, Mr. Kabir Darshan Choudhary, is a senior counsel at the Wikimedia Foundation. The complaint has urged authorities to examine whether this connection created a conflict of interest that could compromise the integrity of legal proceedings.

The complaint requests the government to investigate SFLC’s foreign funding and compliance with FCRA and Income Tax laws; examine the eligibility of Ms. Mishi Choudhary to practice law in India under the Advocates Act; scrutinize SFLC’s activities for potential violations of laws related to national security; review SFLC’s financial statements for accuracy and legality; probe any possible conflict of interest in the organization’s public positions and legal involvement.

The complaint has been submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Law and Justice for further action. SFLC has not yet responded publicly to the allegations.

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‘Is This a Police State?’ Madras High Court Slams TN Police Over Botched Sexual Assault Probe – 5 Times Court Exposed Their Misconduct

By
The Commune
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madras high court tn police

 In a strongly worded rebuke, the Madras High Court questioned the conduct of the Tamil Nadu police in a sexual assault case, asking whether the state is being governed by the rule of law or functioning as a police state. The court expressed serious concern over the police acting as though they themselves were the lawmakers, rather than abiding by the law.

The remarks came during the hearing of a case involving a 28-year-old woman from Chennai who had lodged a complaint at the Mylapore All-Women Police Station in April. In her complaint, she alleged that while working in Delhi, she had entered into a relationship with a man who, exploiting her financial vulnerability, promised to marry her. She claimed he forced her into a sexual relationship, which led to pregnancy, and later coerced her into having an abortion. She also accused him of defrauding her of ₹12 lakh.

When she discovered he was planning to marry another woman, she tried to intervene, prompting him and his mother to confront and threaten her. A case was registered against the accused under charges including sexual assault on 29 April, and the matter is currently pending before the Saidapet court.

However, the survivor filed a petition in the Madras High Court seeking an order for her statement to be formally recorded before the magistrate. She raised concerns that the accused was seeking anticipatory bail and that the police had yet to document her statement. She also accused the police of intentionally delaying the process and attempting to transfer the case to Delhi. She stated that both her safety and that of the accused’s mother were at risk if proper action wasn’t taken.

When the case was heard by Justice P. Velmurugan, he summoned the 18th Metropolitan Magistrate of Saidapet, R. Parthiban, for an explanation. The judge asked why the victim’s statement had not yet been recorded.

The magistrate responded that a summons had been issued to the police, but they had returned it without executing the order.

Condemning the police’s handling of the case, Justice Velmurugan criticized their actions as deliberate obstruction, stated, “The police are making the courts complicit in their fraud. Such actions by the police force are condemnable. Why are you harassing the victim who came to record a statement? Even criminals are not subjected to this much harassment. Which law states that a statement must be recorded only in a specific Magistrate court? The police department must clarify this.”

He further lashed out, stating, “The police treat victims who come in mental distress in a disgusting manner. They refuse to act according to the law and behave with arrogance. Instead of operating by the law, the police operate on the principle that ‘what we say is the law.’ Is this a police state?”

The judge cautioned that if such misconduct by the police continues, there may come a time when the police force itself becomes irrelevant. He remarked that corruption within the department has reached an alarming level of 99.9%, and if it crosses the remaining 1%, it would amount to a “centum” in corruption. The judge noted that such actions not only place a heavy burden on the judiciary but also create significant challenges for the government. He further expressed regret that the government appears to be backing the police despite their wrongdoing. He warned that officers who behave in this manner would face dismissal, and orders to that effect would be issued.

Following this stern warning, the judge directed the police to present the victim before the Saidapet Magistrate to officially record her statement, and then closed the petition.

This isn’t the first instance where the Tamil Nadu police once praised as second only to Scotland Yard have come under judicial scrutiny. In recent times, courts have issued several warnings against their conduct. Here are some notable examples.

Case 1: Custodial Death of Ajith Kumar

On 1 July 2025, the Madras High Court’s Madurai Bench delivered strong remarks against the Tamil Nadu police over the suspected custodial killing of 27-year-old Ajith Kumar, a temple security guard from Sivaganga. The court found the government’s explanation inadequate and questioned the delay and irregularities in the investigation.

While hearing the case, the court remarked, “Police drunk with power” brutally attacked Ajith Kumar, who was arrested on 27 June for the theft of temple jewellery. The bench further condemned the state’s role in the incident, stating, “The state has killed its own citizen.”

The government’s response to the incident was called “insufficient,” and the court expressed concern over procedural delays and possible attempts to obstruct a fair investigation.

Case 2: Puthiya Tamilagam Rally Ban

In January 2025, Justice P. Velmurugan questioned the intentions behind the last-minute denial of permission for a rally organized by the Puthiya Tamilagam (PT) party. The judge asked, “Is the Tamil Nadu police a government agency or a political agency?”

The query was raised during a writ petition filed by PT founder K. Krishnasamy, who accused the Greater Chennai Police of rejecting permission for a planned rally on 7 November 2024 just a day before the event.

The judge further noted, “Let the police explain why did they pass the rejection order at the last moment.”

Dr. K. Krishnasamy, PT’s founder, argued that the sudden denial resulted in inconvenience and financial loss to party members who had traveled from across the state. The police later claimed the rally was denied based on intelligence about potential law and order disruptions, but the court demanded further explanation and reserved the matter for continued hearing.

Case 3: Mishandling of Anna University Sexual Harassment Case

In December 2024, the High Court criticized the police for mishandling a high-profile sexual assault case involving a student at Anna University. A division bench initiated suo motu proceedings after reports surfaced that the survivor’s identity and personal information were leaked by law enforcement.

Bench questioned, “Advocate general P. S. Raman is saying police are investigating the case. If the matter is under investigation, how can the commissioner of police say there is a lone accused?”

The bench, comprising Justices S. M. Subramaniam and V. Lakshminarayanan, rebuked the state government for attempting to take political credit for arresting the accused while ignoring its failure to prevent the crime.

They questioned why the Police Commissioner held a press briefing during an active investigation and whether proper authorization was obtained for such a move. Bench asked, “How could the commissioner conduct a press meet? Was prior permission taken from his higher-ups for it?” The bench further observed, “How would an investigating officer, who reports to the commissioner, take a different stand in case the investigation reveals involvement of more people?” and 

Justice Subramaniam also rebuked the state’s attempt to gain credit for a quick arrest, “How can you say it must be appreciated because an accused has been arrested?”

Advocate R. Varalakshmi, in her letter to the court, expressed concern that the accused had a long criminal record and possible political connections, raising doubts about the integrity of the investigation. The court also disapproved of the premature publicizing of the FIR and the exposure of the survivor’s identity.

Case 4: Kallakurichi Hooch Tragedy

The devastating hooch tragedy in Kallakurichi, which claimed the lives of 68 people from marginalized communities, led the High Court to transfer the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Hearing a batch of PILs, a division bench of Justices D. Krishnakumar and P. B. Balaji ordered the CB-CID to hand over all case documents to the CBI within two weeks. The CBI was directed to investigate the matter comprehensively and submit its final report promptly.

In a separate order, Justice Balaji called the incident a grim reminder of how alcohol abuse can destroy communities. He criticized the reinstatement of a senior officer suspended after the tragedy and condemned the absence of disciplinary action against those responsible.

He further noted a disturbing link between illicit liquor manufacturers and police officials. The judge expressed concern over how the main accused, Govindaraj alias Kannukutty, continued his activities despite multiple prior cases, indicating that law enforcement had willfully ignored his operations.

 Justice Balaji said, “The state was not able to demonstrate what disciplinary action has been taken against these errant officials.”

He further added, “All these leads us to believe there was an unholy connection between the manufacturers of the illicit liquor and the police officials. It also bewilders us that the prime accused Kannukutty alias Govindaraj, despite several cases booked, admittedly goes on scot-free selling the illicit arrack.”

The judge accused the police of, “turning a blind eye” to the rampant sale of illegal liquor, and criticized the CB-CID for being “misdirected” in its pursuit of suspects from Puducherry.

Case 5: ECR Land Grabbing Allegations

In August 2024, the High Court once again chastised the Tamil Nadu police, this time over allegations of their involvement in a land-grabbing case along East Coast Road (ECR). The court transferred the matter to the CBI for an impartial probe.

Justice G. Jayachandran noted the growing perception that police investigators in the state are unable or unwilling to carry out fair and effective inquiries. He warned that this erosion of public trust could drive ordinary citizens to seek protection not from the police, but from criminal elements and political intermediaries.

The case involved a complaint by T. Karthik, who alleged that his property had been unlawfully seized by a group backed by local police officers. According to his counsel, the attackers demolished structures on the land and took illegal possession, all with the support of police officials.

Justice G. Jayachandran wrote, “It is indeed painful to note that the investigation agencies in this State have repeatedly exposed their inability to investigate cases dispassionately, effectively and truly. If this sordid state of affair continues, the poor and innocent public will have no protection from the police and as a sequel, they will lose their faith in the police…They may take shelter under powerful politicians and rowdy elements.”

In scathing remarks, the court said it could not remain a silent spectator to the growing nexus between rowdy elements and law enforcement, especially in cases involving land crimes and violence.

These repeated judicial interventions paint a worrying picture of law enforcement in Tamil Nadu. Once a symbol of efficiency and integrity, the state’s police force is now under intense scrutiny from the judiciary for procedural lapses, abuse of power, and alleged political bias. The courts have made it clear, if the system does not correct itself, public trust and justice may be the ultimate casualties.

(With inputs from Dinamalar)

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TheCommune
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