The case arose after a registered love marriage opposed by the woman’s family. In alleged retaliation, the groom’s younger brother was kidnapped, with Jaganmurthy accused of using political influence
Published Jun 16, 2025 | 8:22 PM ⚊ Updated Jun 16, 2025 | 8:22 PM
Madras High Court slams MLA Poovai Jaganmurthy (@jaganmoorthy_m) / X
Synopsis: In a dramatic development, the Madras High Court on 16 June heard the anticipatory bail plea of MLA Poovai Jaganmurthy, accused in the alleged abduction of a 17-year-old in Kalambakkam. The case relates to a registered love marriage between a local youth and a Theni woman, opposed by her family. Jaganmurthy allegedly supported the family’s retaliation using political influence
In a dramatic turn of events, the Madras High Court on Monday, 16 June, heard the anticipatory bail plea of Puratchi Bharatam Party President and KV Kuppam MLA Poovai Jaganmurthy in connection with the alleged abduction of a 17-year-old boy in Kalambakkam, Thiruvallur district.
The case stems from a registered inter-district love marriage between a local youth and a woman from Theni, opposed by the woman’s family.
Allegedly, in retaliation, the boy’s younger brother was kidnapped with the help of hired men. A complaint accused Jaganmurthy of orchestrating the abduction using political clout.
Five individuals, including the woman’s father, have already been arrested.
Police further claimed that a monetary transaction was linked to the abduction and that senior police officer ADGP Jayaraman was also involved, who has now been arrested.
Amid rising pressure, Jaganmurthy, who had reportedly gone into hiding, filed for anticipatory bail, denying all charges and seeking an urgent hearing.
Chief Justice S.V. Gangapurwala permitted an emergency hearing, assigning the case to Justice P. Velmurugan. In court, senior counsel Prabhakaran represented Jaganmurthy, while Additional Public Prosecutor Damodaran appeared for the state.
The prosecution presented evidence, including CCTV footage and witness statements, suggesting the abducted boy was taken to a hotel, and implicating both Jaganmurthy and ADGP Jayaraman.
Justice Velmurugan made scathing remarks during the hearing. He questioned Jaganmurthy about the margin of his electoral victory, reminding him that elected representatives were meant to serve the people, not conduct illegal “kattapanchayats” (vigilante justice).
“Being elected doesn’t give you licence to break the law,” the judge stated.
The defence denied the use of hired goons and argued that Jayaraman was being falsely implicated due to departmental rivalries.
However, the prosecution countered that Jayaraman had communicated directly with Jaganmurthy and was named in testimonies by lawyer Sarath Kumar and ex-police officer Maheswari.
Justice Velmurugan ordered both Poovai Jaganmurthy and ADGP Jayaraman to appear in person by 2:30 PM and warned that non-cooperation would invite arrest.
He also instructed the police to proceed with Jayaraman’s arrest and demanded a thorough investigation, including witness depositions and a full inquiry report.
Rebuking attempts to politicise the issue or intimidate the judiciary, the judge declared: “Even if a hundred thousand people stand in court, if there is wrongdoing, action will be taken.”
The court firmly stated that public servants who misuse power and betray public trust will face consequences.
The next hearing, including the decision on Jaganmurthy’s anticipatory bail, has been scheduled for June 26, with the police directed to submit a detailed report before then.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Subash Chandra Bose)
