Police constable, three family members booked for dowry harassment in Madurai after audio describing abuse goes viral

After an audio recording of a young police constable in Madurai, purportedly describing in detail how he physically abused his wife while demanding dowry, went viral on social media on Friday (July 18, 2025), the police suspended the officer and registered a case against him and his family members.

The police said that Thanga Priya, 30, a native of Theni district, married Boopalan, 33, of Madurai in 2017. The couple has two children. Boopalan worked as a police constable at the Appanthirupathi police station in Madurai district, while Thanga Priya is a teacher at a private school.

For several months, Thanga Priya claimed that she had been tortured by her husband, who was demanding more dowry from her parents. According to her, she brought 60 sovereigns of gold jewellery at the time of their wedding. Her parents had also purchased several household appliances and a two-wheeler for Boopalan.

Recently, Thanga Priya’s parents purchased an immovable property worth ₹70 lakh for her brother. Boopalan reportedly physically abused her regarding this, demanding more dowry from her family.

The police said that she has been admitted to Government Rajaji Hospital for treatment. Following a complaint from Thanga Priya’s family, the police have registered a case against Boopalan, his father Senthilkumar, an Inspector of Police in Virudhunagar district, mother Vijaya, and sister Anitha under dowry harassment and other criminal charges.

A search is under way to secure the accused. The police have also suspended Senthilkumar. Further investigation is on.