AIADMK expels officer Sudhakar after SIT arrests him under Pocso in child assault case – Tamil Nadu News

The AIADMK on Wednesday expelled a party functionary following his arrest by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the sexual assault of a 10-year-old girl in Chennai. The decision was taken amid growing public outrage over Sudhakar’s alleged role in helping the main accused and attempting to obstruct justice in the high-profile case

The party issued a statement condemning his actions, stating that “103rd Circle Secretary Sudhakar has been expelled from AIADMK for misconduct and defaming the organization.”

Sudhakar’s arrest is part of a wider investigation into the case, which first gained attention in September 2023 when the victim’s parents released a video alleging that their daughter had suffered sexual violence in Anna Nagar. The parents claimed that when they went to the women’s police station. Anna Nagar to lodge a complaint, they were attacked by Inspector Raji.

On Tuesday, Inspector Raji was also arrested by the SIT for her alleged role in intimidating the victim’s family. Both Sudhakar and Raji were produced before a magistrate and remanded in judicial custody till January 21.

Earlier, the Madras High Court took suo motu cognizance of the case and transferred it to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). However, the Tamil Nadu government approached the Supreme Court, which constituted a seven-member SIT to supervise the investigation.

Initially, a 14-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the crime, but subsequent investigation led to the arrest of 30-year-old Satish as the main accused. The SIT maintains that Sudhakar provided logistical and moral support to Satish, complicating efforts to ensure justice for the victim.

On Wednesday, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin addressed the Assembly on the issue. He said: “The case initially concerned the arrest of a minor in connection with a crime. The victim’s parents filed a complaint alleging misconduct by a police officer, alleging that the officer mistreated them and failed to take action against the main accused, Satish. This resulted in the case being transferred to Koyambedu Women Police Station where further investigation led to the arrest of Satish.”

The SIT arrested AIADMK functionary Sudhakar and police inspector Raja for their alleged role in obstruction of justice. Both were placed in judicial custody. “The SIT’s actions underline its commitment to ensuring justice for the victim and his family,” Stalin added.

The Prime Minister stressed the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring that such matters are handled with utmost sensitivity and efficiency. Further investigations into this matter are ongoing.