Why Veeramani case haunts Stalin as police ‘lapses’ give Vijay bypoll ammo

The alleged child sexual abuse case involving R Veeramani, a granite businessman, has resurfaced as a significant issue for the DMK, particularly during the upcoming October 6 bypolls in two Assembly seats, Madurantakam and Dharapuram. The case began with a video showing the abuse of a minor, leading to an initial police investigation and subsequent closure by a Special Protection Group (SPG) court.

Veeramani was arrested in August 2025, along with two associates, after a renewed inquiry identified survivors. The DMK is facing criticism over the handling of the case during its tenure, with allegations of police accountability and political responsibility. Senior IPS officers A Arun and N Kannan were placed on compulsory wait by the state government, further complicating matters for the DMK's former chief minister, M K Stalin.

The TVK, led by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, has seized on the situation, challenging Stalin over the case's handling and accusing the DMK of being "evil." The TVK candidate, Maragatham Kumaravel, a former AIADMK legislator, was recruited by the TVK, drawing criticism from Stalin. Meanwhile, the CPI(M), formerly an ally of the DMK, is also questioning Stalin's administration's actions, demanding a High Court-monitored Special Investigation Team and the suspension of officers under scrutiny.