The arrest of R. Veeramani, owner of Gem Granites, in connection with a horrific sexual abuse case involving minor girls has sent shockwaves through Tamil Nadu’s business and political circles. While the police investigation has revealed disturbing details of a network that allegedly exploited children for years, a glaring detail has emerged regarding the businessman’s influential positions: the same Veeramani is listed as a member of the Planning and Monitoring Board at the Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT).
The Case Background
According to reports, video evidence of Veeramani sexually abusing minor girls was obtained as early as October of last year. Despite a complaint being filed with the Chennai Police Commissioner’s office, no immediate action was taken, leading to widespread allegations of a cover-up. It was only last month that Veeramani was finally arrested, along with his associates Shanthi and her husband Simhan.
During a three-day police custody interrogation, investigators confirmed that over 10 minor girls had been sexually assaulted. The abuse allegedly took place at an office in Thenampet, which was operated by Shanthi and her husband. Investigators have stated that Shanthi reportedly lured many minor girls to the location. Furthermore, the interrogation revealed shocking information that several other industrialists were also involved in the sexual abuse of these children.
Allegations of Bribery and Political Interference
The delay in police action has sparked serious questions. Sources indicate that senior police officials at the time claimed they could not identify the girls or find any evidence, despite the existence of video proof. There are serious allegations that a senior police official received a bribe of over ₹5 crore to bury the case. Additionally, it is alleged that Veeramani sold a property in the ECR region to fund the cover-up and paid off police officials to avoid arrest.
VIT Board Membership Under Scrutiny
Adding to the controversy is Veeramani’s public profile. A document from the VIT website confirms that R. Veeramani serves as a member of the “Planning and Monitoring Board” for the institution. He is listed alongside the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, and other senior academic and administrative officials.
His position on the board of a prominent educational institution, while facing such severe allegations of child sexual abuse, has raised further questions about the extent of his influence and the potential for institutional protection.
Chief Minister’s Intervention
Amid mounting public pressure and questions regarding political interference, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has intervened directly. The Chief Minister held a three-day consultation with top officials, including the DGP, the Chennai Police Commissioner, the ADGP (Law and Order), and the Chief Secretary. The Chief Minister has ordered a thorough investigation to identify all industrialists who were complicit in the abuse, the police officials who failed to act or received bribes and any political leaders who may have provided protection to the accused.
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