Fifth Child Rape Case Lodged Against Gem Granites Owner R. Veeramani as SIT Widens Probe
In a significant widening of the high-profile sexual abuse investigation shaking Tamil Nadu’s corporate and social landscape, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has registered a fifth child sexual abuse case against 84-year-old R. Veeramani, the prominent founder and owner of Gem Granites. The latest formal First Information Report (FIR) was registered in Chennai on Friday after a resident of the city formally approached investigators with a comprehensive complaint. Concurrently, a separate survivor from Tiruvannamalai came forward to record her testimony, stating she was subjected to aggravated sexual assault by Veeramani years ago when she was brought to Chennai under the pretext of securing domestic employment as a minor.
Behind Bars Under Goondas Act: High-Profile Arrests Follow Leaked Visual Evidence
Veeramani was formally taken into custody by law enforcement on August 29, 2026, alongside two key accomplices, identified as Shanti and Mahendra Simhan, immediately following the widespread viral circulation of graphic video footage documenting the sexual abuse of a child. Recognizing the grave nature of the allegations and potential threats to witnesses, state authorities subsequently invoked the preventive provisions of the Tamil Nadu Goondas Act against him, ensuring his sustained detention without immediate bail relief while specialized investigative units proceed with evidence gathering.
Court Overrules Police Closure Report: Judicial Intervention Revives Full Investigation
The criminal case has triggered widespread public indignation and fierce political debate across Tamil Nadu, particularly following revelations surrounding prior administrative lapses. In February 2026, investigating police officers had quietly submitted a closure report before the Special POCSO Court, recommending that all proceedings be dropped. However, during subsequent judicial scrutiny in August 2026, the dedicated POCSO court firmly rejected the closure petition, castigating previous investigative gaps and ordering an exhaustive, independent probe. The court's intervention paved the way for the formation of the Special Investigation Team, which has since affected four arrests and registered five major cases of child sexual assault.
Helpline Flooded with Complaints: SIT Verifies Fresh Leads from Surviving Victims
The fifth case was formally registered after the SIT received actionable details through its dedicated public grievance WhatsApp helpline (9345319676). Senior police officials confirmed that the dedicated line is receiving numerous distress messages and documented testimonies from historical victims, their relatives, and concerned citizens. Investigators noted that several survivors, who were abused during their minority, have since married and established families across diverse districts. The SIT is currently cross-verifying at least five additional credible complaints received via the helpline to determine further legal action against the industrialist and his network.
