Chennai –The Tamil Nadu Crime Branch–Criminal Investigation Department (CB-CID) has formally taken on the investigation into the alleged abduction of a 16-year old youth in Thiruvalangadu, a case that has reverberated throughout Tamil Nadu’s police and political circles. The investigation also involves suspended ADGP, (Additional Director General of Police), H. M. Jayaram, and sitting MLA ‘Poovai’ M. Jagan Moorthy.
The Case: Abduction Sparked by Inter-Caste Marriage
At the center of the controversy is an inter-caste couple Dhanush (22) from Kalambakkam, Tiruvallur district, and Vijaya Sri (21) from Theni district who married on April 15, reportedly against the wishes of Vijaya Sri’s family.
In the early hours of June 7, five individuals, allegedly hired by the woman’s family, entered Dhanush’s residence searching for the couple. Finding them absent, the group abducted Dhanush’s younger brother, Inder Chand, threatening to release him only if the couple’s location was disclosed.
Inder Chand was released later the same day near Perambakkam Bus Stand, but not before allegedly facing physical and mental abuse.
Involvement of Top Officials
A startling revelation by police confirmed that the vehicle used in the kidnapping was linked to suspended ADGP H.M. Jayaram, leading to a flurry of judicial and administrative actions. Investigations also hinted at the involvement of MLA Jagan Moorthy, adding a political dimension to the crime.
A complaint filed by the boy’s mother, Lakshmi, led to an FIR under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including charges of kidnapping and criminal trespass.
Judicial Action and CB-CID Intervention
The case escalated when Justice P. Velmurugan of the Madras High Court ordered the police to act against Jayaram and summoned Moorthy. Both were interrogated extensively but later released.
Subsequently, Jayaram moved the Supreme Court challenging the HC’s directive. The apex court refused interim relief but ordered that the bail petition be heard by a different HC bench and mandated that the CB-CID take over the investigation to ensure impartiality.
CB-CID to Lead Fresh Probe
Following the Supreme Court order, the CB-CID has registered a new case and assigned a fresh investigating officer. Those earlier questioned, including the key accused, are expected to be re-summoned for further interrogation.
Larger Questions of Power and Prejudice
The case has sparked a larger debate on misuse of power and institutional complicity in violating personal liberty — especially in inter-caste relationships, where social stigma remains a driving force behind coercive actions.
What’s Next?
- CB-CID’s deeper investigation into the role of senior officials
- Possible arrests following interrogation
- Judicial scrutiny of state response to inter-caste conflicts and misuse of police resources