Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi Arrested Following Bail Denial

In a significant development, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, the former school education minister of Tamil Nadu, was arrested by the Central Crime Branch (CCB) on Monday. This action followed the dismissal of his anticipatory bail plea by the Madras High Court, which has now led to his remand in judicial custody until November 6.

The case against Poyyamozhi stems from a complaint filed by D C Elangovan, secretary of the Federation of Associations of Private Schools in Tamil Nadu. The complaint alleges that two individuals, B T Arasakumar and Muthukumar, collected over Rs 100 crore from private school managements under the pretense of securing various approvals during the DMK's governance. However, the CCB has estimated the total amount involved to be around Rs 400 crore, asserting that Poyyamozhi's custodial interrogation is crucial for uncovering the details of the alleged scam.

Poyyamozhi was apprehended at his lawyer's office in Aminjikarai and subsequently taken to the police commissioner’s office for questioning. After approximately three hours of interrogation, he was sent to a government hospital for a medical examination before being presented to Special Judge L S Sathiamurthy. The prosecution argued that there is substantial evidence linking Poyyamozhi to the case, and expressed concerns that he might tamper with evidence or influence witnesses if not remanded.

Defense attorney P Wilson challenged the legality of the arrest, questioning the necessity of such actions against a former minister in the lawyer's office immediately after a court ruling. He highlighted that many officials are involved in the signing of permits and licenses, suggesting that the complaint may stem from rivalry among private school associations rather than direct misconduct by Poyyamozhi. The police have charged him under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including criminal breach of trust and cheating.

The ramifications of this case extend beyond Poyyamozhi, as the CCB is actively investigating the broader implications of the alleged corruption. Searches were conducted at multiple locations linked to the former minister and his associates, leading to the seizure of documents and electronic devices. The Enforcement Directorate has also initiated a separate inquiry under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to explore any money laundering activities related to the case. As investigations continue, authorities are working to trace the funds collected from private school managements and identify any additional individuals involved in the scheme.