Coimbatore: Based on documents received from the CB-CID, the CBI yesterday carried out searches at the key accused in the Pollachi sexual harassment case, which snowballed into a political row.
On 12 February, a gang of four had allegedly tried to strip the woman inside a car near Pollachi blackmailed her with a video. The victim had subsequently lodged a complaint with police on 24 February.
The CBI had taken over the investigation from CB-CID and began probe on 12 March on the request of the State government.
The case assumed political overtones since a local functionary of the ruling AIADMK allegedly attacked the victim’s brother. The attack by the functionary, who was later expelled from the AIADMK, coupled with reports in a section of media that the gang had sexually harassed several other women, led to State-wide outrage.
Protests by parties including the DMK, students and the youth outfits were held across the State putting pressure on the government and police for speedy action.