New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday issued directions restraining both retired IPS officer Pon Manickavel and officials of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) from making any public statements regarding the ongoing investigation into Tamil Nadu’s Idol Theft cases.
The move came after Manickavel voluntarily undertook not to give any interviews to the press or media in relation to the case. The Supreme Court bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, taking note of this, extended a similar restriction to the CBI Investigating Officer, restraining public remarks during the pendency of the matter.
CBI Had Sought Surrender of Passport, Media Gag
The directions were passed while hearing the CBI’s plea seeking two additional bail conditions against the retired officer—surrender of his passport and a bar on media interactions.
Senior Advocate S. Nagamuthu, appearing for Manickavel, submitted that the officer’s passport was due to expire and that he would apply for renewal. Once renewed, he assured the court that the passport would be surrendered promptly and that Manickavel would not travel abroad without prior approval from the trial court.
Regarding media comments, Nagamuthu submitted that Manickavel will not make any public statement or media comment (in either print or electronic format) on the subject case, and requested a similar restraint be imposed on CBI officials, which the court accepted.
Case Background: Idol Theft Controversy and Legal Disputes
Pon Manickavel, formerly known for leading high-profile investigations into idol thefts in Tamil Nadu, is now accused of falsely implicating other police officials, including suspended DSP Kader Batcha, in connection with the alleged 2005 theft of idols from a Pazhavoor temple.
The FIR against Manickavel was filed based on Batcha’s complaint, accusing the former officer of media interference and violating anticipatory bail conditions by publicly discussing the investigation.
In August 2024, the Madras High Court granted anticipatory bail to Manickavel with conditions, including daily appearance before the CBI for four weeks and a prohibition on tampering with witnesses or evidence.
However, post-interrogation, Manickavel allegedly gave multiple interviews, criticizing the CBI’s investigation methods. This led to complaints by Batcha and a petition before the Madras High Court, where Manickavel gave an earlier written undertaking in March 2025 to refrain from further interviews. That petition was later disposed of.
What the Supreme Court Ordered Today
- Manickavel: Will not speak to the media about the case, including electronic and print outlets.
- CBI: Investigating officers are restrained from making any public statement against Manickavel.
Passport: Manickavel will apply for renewal and surrender it once reissued; will not travel abroad without trial court’s permission.
The Court’s interim arrangement is expected to maintain procedural integrity during the ongoing investigation and ensure that media narratives do not influence legal proceedings.
