CB-CID begins probe into registration of Palani math land

The Crime Branch-Criminal Investigation Department (CB-CID) on Thursday (July 16, 2026) began its probe into the fraudulent registration of 1.35 acre of land belonging to Arulmigu Dhandapani Swamigal Madam (math) at the foothills of Palani in Dindigul district.

A team of 15 police officers, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ajay Thangam, conducted inquiries in Palani.

The Palani Adivaram police had registered a case against the suspended Sub-Registrar, Justin Manikandan Subramanian, and others. The State government subsequently transferred the probe into the case to the CB-CID.

The police then handed over all the case-related documents to the CB-CID team, comprising Inspector Santhanalakshmi, who arrived at the Palani Devasthanam head office and conducted inquiries. The team examined documents pertaining to the land issue, including the objections raised by the math to the Registration Department. It also recorded the statements of the temple officials and staff.

Meanwhile, the Registration Department has formed a three-member committee to conduct a thorough inquiry into the fraudulent registration of the Palani temple land. The committee comprises Additional Inspector-General of Registration, Assistant Inspector-General of Registration, and the District Registrar.

The committee will conduct a detailed inquiry with the Sub-Registrar (in-charge), who was on duty on the day of the registration, the Sub-Registrar who was on leave, the District Registrar, and the assistants. It will also examine the CCTV footage at the office.

On Wednesday (July 15, 2026), the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court allowed the appeal filed by the math, and declared as null and void a controversial sale deed executed in favour of certain individuals with regards to the 1.35 acre of land.

Meanwhile, Mr. Subramanian, the Sub-Registrar (in-charge) who registered the document, has moved the High Court seeking anticipatory bail. The Registration Department has also placed District Registrar Sasikala under suspension.