Tamil Nadu police officer arrested in teen abduction case after High Court order

Tamil Nadu Assistant Director General of Police (ADGP) HM Jayaram was arrested on the directive of the Madras High Court on Monday, in connection with a case involving the abduction of a minor in Chennai. Jayaram, who is with the Armed Police, was taken into custody minutes later as he exited the court premises.

Justice P Velmurugan issued the oral directive while hearing an anticipatory bail application filed by MLA Poovai Jagan Moorthy, who represents Kilvaithinankuppam and leads the Puratchi Bharatham Katchi. Moorthy had sought protection from arrest in the same case. The MLA had earlier evaded arrest when police attempted to take him into custody on Sunday from his residence, leading to a standoff with supporters.

Both Moorthy and Jayaram were summoned to appear in person after submissions were made that the ADGP’s official vehicle had allegedly been used in the kidnapping. They appeared before the court on Monday afternoon.

The government counsel submitted that three individuals — Sharath, Vanaraja and David — had abducted the boy and taken him to a hotel, a claim allegedly supported by CCTV footage. It was also submitted that ADGP Jayaram had spoken to Moorthy about the matter.

During the hearing, Justice Velmurugan questioned Moorthy about the number of votes he had received. When Moorthy responded that he had secured about 80,000 votes and won by a margin of 10,000, the judge remarked that such a mandate was meant to serve the people, not to conduct kangaroo courts.

He told the MLA to raise public issues in the Assembly and attempt to resolve them through proper channels, reminding him that he represented the entire constituency, not just his voters. The judge added that if a layperson approached him with a grievance, it was his responsibility to assist.

The court also expressed concern over reports that nearly 2,000 people had gathered outside Moorthy’s residence when police went to summon him for questioning. “Why do you want so many people with you? You are an MLA. Why are you shying away?” Justice Velmurugan asked, stressing the need for Moorthy to cooperate with the investigation.

The judge further clarified that an MLA, as an elected representative, could not be treated the same as a police officer, who is a government servant. He said the court’s directions should send a message to all public servants.

A lawyer and a former police officer had made confessional statements implicating Moorthy. Police are expected to question both the ADGP and his driver as part of the ongoing investigation.

Justice Velmurugan ordered police to proceed with appropriate legal action based on the available evidence. The case has been adjourned to June 26.