DMK Leader’s Son And Daughter-In-Law Accused of Abusing Domestic Help

The Chennai Police has filed a case against the son and daughter-in-law of DMK leader Karunanidhi for allegedly abusing their domestic help. 

The victim worked as a domestic help, in the couple’s house, for the last year, to support her education goals. The 18 year old was preparing for the medical entrance exam NEET. 

The girl, who belongs to a scheduled caste community, had returned to her family during the Pongal holidays. She went to a government hospital where she was treated for abrasions. The hospital informed the Ulundurpet police who in turn informed the Adyar police in Chennai.

Doctors discovered injury marks in her body and cigarette burns. They suspect that she was also beaten. 

“The young lady was taken to an Ulundurpet hospital for treatment and doctors there alerted the nearest police station. We are trying to speak to her to register a case. Neither she nor the family is accessible. We feel they are trying to avoid,” an officer from the Neelangarai Police Station told NDTV.

In a statement recorded by a lady police officer, the victim said, “I was 17 years old when I was taken to do domestic work and beaten with things like slippers, spoons, broom and mops, leaving bloody wounds all over my body.”  She was promised a salary of Rs 16,000 but received only Rs 5000. 

Madurai based anti-caste activist Vincent Raj said, “When she was a minor she has been tortured for more than eight months.” 

“She turned 18 only last month. The strictest action must be taken”, he added. 

Kathir, The Executive Director of Evidence at a nonprofit, has ordered a probe into this case and wants strict action against the couple.