Three Arrested in Land Fraud Case Linked to Famous Tamil Nadu Temple

In a significant development, the CB-CID in Tamil Nadu has arrested three individuals linked to a land fraud case involving the Arulmigu Dandayuthapani Swamy temple. The suspects allegedly used forged documents to acquire land worth ₹100 crores for a mere ₹2 crores. Following the discovery of this scam, the Tamil Nadu government has canceled the property's registration and suspended the sub-registrar involved. Additionally, a separate FIR has been filed against 19 individuals in a related case concerning another temple property in Madurai. Investigations are ongoing as authorities delve into the manipulation of revenue records and the roles of those involved.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 29, 2026, 13:57 IST

Arrests Made in Temple Land Fraud Investigation

The CB-CID of Tamil Nadu has apprehended three individuals in connection with an alleged land fraud case involving the renowned Arulmigu Dandayuthapani Swamy (Palani Murugan) temple in Dindigul district. Investigators claim that the suspects utilized forged documents to fraudulently acquire land valued at approximately ₹100 crores for just ₹2 crores. This disputed land is intended for parking at the Palani Murugan temple, which is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in Tamil Nadu. The current market value of the land is estimated to be around ₹100 crores. The arrested individuals have been identified as 60-year-old Vellaiythurai from Pappankulam in the Madathukulam taluk of Tiruppur district; 65-year-old Anwardeen from Goundankulam on ACC Road in the Palani taluk of Dindigul district; and 56-year-old Murugadas from Kamarajar Nagar 2nd Cross Street in Salamedu, Villupuram district. The CB-CID has filed charges against the accused under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The investigation into the alleged fraud is ongoing.

Registration of Controversial Property Cancelled

Following the revelation of the land scam, the Tamil Nadu government has annulled the registration of the disputed property. The sub-registrar on duty at the time, Justin Manikandan, has also been suspended. Officials reported that the CB-CID has interrogated the suspended sub-registrar for several hours as part of the ongoing investigation. They are trying to determine how the allegedly forged documents were accepted during the registration process and what actions were taken thereafter.

Separate FIR Filed in Madurai Temple Property Case

In a related but distinct case concerning temple property, the Madurai Central Crime Branch has filed an FIR against 19 individuals based on a complaint from the joint commissioner of the Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple. The complaint alleges that the accused conspired to fraudulently transfer a valuable property lease located in Chokkikulam, Madurai. The FIR also claims that illegal mortgage deeds and power of attorney documents were created as part of this scheme.

Allegations of Manipulation in Revenue Records

Investigators have indicated that the property in Madurai was originally donated to the temple, with a registered will established in 1930 to support the temple's religious and charitable activities. The complaint alleges that certain private individuals colluded with former officials from the revenue and sub-registrar departments to manipulate land records, facilitating the alleged illegal transactions. Authorities are examining the role of each accused in the ongoing investigation.