It is abduction, says missing film producer's mother

Chennai: In a new twist to the 'disappearance' of Vendhar Movies proprietor Madan, his mother has alleged he was abducted and charged police with giving in to 'influence' and being lax in tracing him.

On their part, the city police told the Madras high court on Monday that several parents lodged complaints alleging that Madan had collected money promising them admission in SRM University. Police also informed the court that all complaints were now with the central crime branch.

A submission to this effect was made by additional public prosecutor, when a habeas corpus petition filed by Madan's mother came up for admission before a division bench comprising Justice S Nagamuthu and Justice V Bharathidasan on Monday. Madan disappeared more than a week ago, apparently leaving behind a note saying he was going to Varanasi to attain 'samadhi'.

Pointing out that the additional public prosecutor had no information on whether cases were registered on the complaints, the judges issued notices to police and adjourned the hearing to June 8 for further hearing. They, however, made it clear the search for Madan should continue.

In her petition, Madan's mother R S Thangam said he left for Delhi on May 27 and that messages of his letter began circulating on social media on May 29. She lodged a complaint with the Virugambakkam police on May 31.