Former Tamil Nadu Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi Arrested in Private Schools Fraud Case

Arrest After Bail Dismissal

Chennai police arrested former DMK Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi on October 26, 2026. The arrest happened hours after the Madras High Court dismissed his anticipatory bail plea.

The Scam Charges

A special team from the Central Crime Branch arrested Mr. Poyyamozhi over an alleged multicrore scam. Investigators state that large sums of money were collected as party funds from private school managements across Tamil Nadu while he served as the School Education Minister between 2021 and 2026.

Origin of the Case

The case stems from a complaint filed by C. Elangovan, the secretary of the Tamil Nadu Private Schools Federation, with the Chennai Police Commissioner. The complaint targeted B.T. Arasakumar, who is 59 years old and has been detained under the Goondas Act. Investigators say Mr. Arasakumar ran an unregistered group called the Tamil Nadu Private Schools Association and collected money by promising school approvals, permanent recognition, and building plan approvals using his closeness to the ruling party at the time.

Evidence and Associates

The Central Crime Branch added Mr. Poyyamozhi as an accused after finding evidence pointing to bribe money collected as party funds. Police are currently searching for Muthukumar, described as a close associate of the former minister who is currently absconding.

Context

High-profile corruption investigations involving politicians and officials often rely on financial trails and complaints from affected industry groups or associations. In India, cases involving illegal collections and misuse of official influence are typically handled by specialized police units like the Central Crime Branch before moving through the judicial system for bail hearings and trials.