Tamil Nadu CM Vijay Challenges Stalin Over Veermani Case Closure

Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan of the AIADMK-led alliance on Thursday raised fresh accusations against former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin regarding the handling of a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) case. Vijay demanded clarity on the circumstances under which the case against the accused, Veermani, was closed during the previous DMK administration.

During a political address, Vijay alleged that the investigation was deliberately stalled and questioned the proximity between the DMK and AIADMK leadership, suggesting potential collusion in the matter. "Why was the case closed, sir?" he asked, framing the issue as a question of governance and accountability in protecting children's rights in the state.

Strictly denying the charges, Stalin's camp dismissed Vijay's allegations as politically motivated and baseless. The former chief minister's office reiterated that all actions taken during the previous administration were within legal and procedural frameworks. Supporters of Stalin stated that the allegations were part of a broader political campaign targeting the DMK ahead of elections.

The Veermani case has become a flashpoint in Tamil Nadu's intensifying political discourse, with both parties attempting to gain electoral advantage. Legal experts have noted that POCSO cases fall under strict scrutiny, and any procedural irregularities remain subject to judicial review. The state's law enforcement agencies have not issued fresh statements clarifying the case's current status.