'Gem Granites' Veeramani booked in second POCSO Act case

R. Veeramani. File | Photo credit: The Hindu

Chennai police have registered a fresh case against ‘Gem Granites’ R. Veeramani under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act (POCSO), police sources said on Monday (28 Sep 2026).

The second case was registered based on a complaint by a woman who claimed that her daughter, a minor, was sexually abused by a businessman. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has started investigating the case.

The police have detained Veeramani (85) under the POCSO Act and are likely to formally arrest the granite baron, who is already lodged in Puzhal jail in connection with another case under the POCSO Act.

Police are investigating the statements of three other women who claimed they were sexually abused by the businessman in the past, the sources added.

Investigators were also looking into a complaint filed by a woman who claimed her daughter, who was abused by Veeramani, ended her life. The incident happened many years ago. The complaint said that though she lodged a complaint with the local police, no action was taken, sources said.

Appeal to the public

Chennai Police said those willing to file a complaint related to the above cases or share any information can call or WhatsApp the details to 9345319676. The identity of the sender will be kept confidential.

Summon CM, Minister for questioning: TR Baal

In a related development, DMK treasurer TR Baalu on Monday submitted a petition to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the case, urging it to summon Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and his cabinet colleagues Aadhav Arjuna and CTR Nirmal Kumar and seek evidence to support their allegations against the DMK in the case.

In his petition, Mr. Baalu recalled Mr. Arjuna’s claim that the DMK had protected Mr. Veeramani and closed the case against him. “Mr. Nirmal Kumar claimed that DMK received ₹500 crore from an industrialist. The allegations are false and were made to defame DMK leaders. If the two ministers have evidence in this case, why did they not hand it over to the officials investigating the case,” he asked.

Mr Baalu said details from the case diary had been leaked unofficially and were being circulated outside. “The allegations against the Chief Minister and his cabinet colleagues are directly related to the case. The SIT should get details and evidence from them,” he added.

Help to overcome suicidal thoughts is available from the National Health Helpline (104) and the Sneha Suicide Prevention Helpline (044-2464 0050).

Published – 28 Sep 2026 15:25 IST