Tamil Nadu POCSO Case: Sumanth C. Raman, Felix Gerald & Harish Mohammed Ibrahim Debate Police Lapses

A political showdown erupted in the Karnataka Assembly between the Congress and the BJP over the rendition of Vande Mataram. When assembly proceedings commenced, the Congress government concluded the national song after two stanzas, opting for a shorter version. BJP legislators protested and continued singing the remaining verses inside the house. The BJP accused the ruling Congress of minority appeasement and insisted on playing the full version in accordance with central directives. Meanwhile, the Congress defended its stance by citing historical deliberations regarding the composition during the freedom movement.

A special POCSO court rejected an initial police closure report in a case involving influential granite baron Veeramani, directing a fresh investigation into the matter. The initial five-month police inquiry was closed citing a lack of evidence, failure to recover original footage, and the inability to identify the victim. Following the court's intervention, a renewed 40-day probe resulted in the arrest of the prominent businessman and two others. Questions have been raised regarding lapses in the preliminary investigation, with authorities confirming an inquiry into the actions of the earlier investigating police team.

Tensions between Iran and the United States continue to escalate in West Asia amid an ongoing deadlock. Iran issued a stern warning via state news agency IRNA, stating its readiness to launch an effective, continuous, and painful retaliation against US bases and regional allies if targeted by American military action. Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, and the US has asserted control over Iranian port access, intercepting over 109 merchant vessels. Following Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, US President Donald Trump indicated potential strikes against Iran. Washington has also advised its citizens against travelling to the region.

A probe into the POCSO case involving Tamil Nadu granite baron R. Veeramani has revealed details surrounding the alleged sexual assault of minor girls. Investigators traced a rented house in Chennai's Teynampet where minors were allegedly exploited. Three individuals—Veeramani, Shanti, and Mahendra Simon—have been arrested in connection with the crime. The case originated in October 2025 after police received pen drive footage showing an assault, but authorities initially attempted to close the matter. A special POCSO court rejected the closure report and ordered further investigation. Following recent developments, Chief Minister Vijay ordered a detailed probe, sparking a political dispute between state leaders regarding previous handling of the investigation.