Love Marriage Sparks Kidnapping Controversy: ADGP Detained, MLA Under Fire in Tamil Nadu

A dramatic family dispute over a love marriage has escalated into a full-blown legal and political scandal in Tamil Nadu, involving top police officials and a sitting MLA. The Madras High Court recently ordered the detention of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) HM Jayaram, following his alleged involvement in a kidnapping case linked to a marriage that faced stiff parental opposition.

Love Against the Odds

At the centre of the controversy is a 22-year-old man who married a young woman against the wishes of her father, Vanaraja. Angered by the union, Vanaraja is alleged to have launched a vendetta to dismantle the marriage. According to police sources, he sought the help of Maheswari, a former police constable who had previously been dismissed from service. Maheswari, in turn, allegedly involved senior police officer HM Jayaram to intervene.

Political Influence Allegedly Misused

The case took a political turn when Jayaram reportedly approached Poovai Jagan Moorthy, the sitting MLA from Kilvaithinakuppam and Chief of the Puratchi Bharatham party. Moorthy, who won the seat under the AIADMK symbol in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections, is accused of using his influence to orchestrate the abduction of the groom’s 16-year-old younger brother, after failing to locate the newlywed man.

The kidnapping allegedly involved Moorthy's associates, who, according to police, forcibly detained the minor. The boy was eventually released after his mother approached the authorities. However, what shocked investigators was that the minor was dropped off in a car registered to ADGP Jayaram—driven by a serving constable and accompanied by Maheswari and Vanaraja.

Court Slams MLA’s Conduct

The Madras High Court, while hearing Moorthy's anticipatory bail plea, did not mince words. The judge rebuked the MLA for allegedly evading police action and criticised his misuse of political clout. “Why are you afraid of a police investigation? An MLA must be a role model and not run kangaroo courts,” the court observed sternly.

Adding to the seriousness, the court highlighted that Moorthy’s supporters had allegedly obstructed police efforts to detain him over the weekend in Tiruvallur district. The court instructed Moorthy to present himself for investigation—without any political entourage—underscoring that no one is above the law.

Financial Transactions Under Scrutiny

Investigators are also probing significant financial transactions reportedly linked to the kidnapping. While ADGP Jayaram has already been detained as per court orders, MLA Moorthy continues to deny any wrongdoing. His anticipatory bail plea remains under judicial consideration, pending an assessment of his cooperation with the investigation.

Conclusion

This high-stakes saga underscores the volatile intersection of personal disputes, law enforcement, and political power. With a senior police official already detained and a sitting legislator under intense scrutiny, the case is shaping up to be one of Tamil Nadu’s most sensational legal battles in recent memory. As investigations continue, all eyes remain on how the judiciary and law enforcement handle the alleged abuse of authority and the quest for justice in a deeply personal conflict.