Police attempted to arrest KV Kuppam MLA and Puratchi Bharatha Party (PBP) leader Poovai Jagan Moorthy on Sunday in an abduction case involving a minor, leading to a tense standoff between the force and PBP supporters in North Chennai. Moorthy, an ally of the AIADMK, reportedly evaded arrest by slipping away during the commotion.

The case involves the abduction of a 16-year-old boy, whose older brother, aged 23, had married a 21-year-old woman from Theni against her family’s wishes. The police suspect the boy was abducted in retaliation for the marriage.

Following a complaint by the boy’s mother, the police initiated an investigation. Though the boy was later released, three men — Ganesan, Vanaraja and Manikandan from Theni — were arrested for their alleged involvement. Further investigation led to the arrest of a woman and another man, who reportedly revealed the MLA’s involvement in the abduction.

Anticipating resistance, nearly 100 police personnel were deployed around Moorthy’s residence. As police approached the house, party workers blocked the road in protest, while others gathered behind the gates, refusing to allow officers to enter the premises. Amidst the commotion, Moorthy is said to have escaped.

The Madra High Court hearing Moorthy’s anticipatory bail plea had directed both Poovai Jagan Moorthy and Tamil Nadu Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Jayaram to appear in person before the court by 2.30 pm. Moorthy stands accused of involvement in the abduction of the teen boy.

Following submissions from the government counsel alleging the ADGP’s involvement in the abduction, Justice Velmurugan ordered the arrest of ADGP Jayaraman.

Further investigation is ongoing.