Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi Denied Bail in Tamil Nadu Private Schools Approval Scam Case

A special court in Chennai on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, rejected the bail application of former Tamil Nadu School Education Minister and DMK leader Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi in the alleged private schools approval scam.Special Judge L.S. Sathiyamoorthy, who handles cases under the Prevention of Corruption Act, dismissed the petition filed by the former minister.

The case concerns allegations that money was collected from private school managements in exchange for government approvals, recognition and other regulatory clearances during the previous DMK government's tenure.Poyyamozhi was arrested on October 26, 2026, after the Madras High Court rejected his anticipatory bail application. He has been lodged in Puzhal Central Prison in Chennai since his arrest.

Why Was Anbil Mahesh Arrested?

The investigation originated from a complaint alleging irregularities in the process of granting approvals and recognition to private educational institutions in Tamil Nadu.According to the prosecution, certain individuals associated with a private schools' organisation allegedly collected money from school managements by promising assistance with permanent recognition, institutional upgrades and statutory permissions.

Investigators have alleged that payments were collected under the description of a "party fund" and that Anbil Mahesh was connected to the alleged transactions.The police have also alleged that school representatives were assured that their requests would be addressed through government orders after the payments were made.These allegations are part of the ongoing investigation and have not been established in court. Anbil Mahesh has denied wrongdoing.

Madras High Court Earlier Rejected Anticipatory Bail

Before his arrest, Anbil Mahesh had approached the Madras High Court seeking anticipatory bail.On October 26, Justice V. Lakshminarayanan rejected his application, observing that custodial interrogation was necessary to investigate the alleged financial transactions and trace the money trail.The prosecution had argued that questioning the former minister in custody was important to establish the alleged movement of funds and examine his suspected role in the case.The High Court also considered allegations that he had helped shield another accused who remained unavailable to investigators.Following the rejection of anticipatory bail, the Chennai Central Crime Branch arrested Poyyamozhi.

What Is the Alleged Private Schools Approval Scam?

The case involves allegations of financial irregularities in securing government recognition and other permissions for private schools.According to the investigation, school managements were allegedly approached with promises of assistance in obtaining:

• Permanent recognition for private schools.
• Approval for upgrading school facilities and status.
• Regulatory and statutory clearances.
• Permissions from relevant planning authorities.

The prosecution has referred to allegations involving payments from multiple school managements. Investigators are examining the alleged financial transactions and the involvement of different individuals.The case has also drawn attention to the regulatory procedures governing private schools in Tamil Nadu.

Anbil Mahesh Case: What Happens Next?

With the special court rejecting his bail application, Anbil Mahesh will continue to remain in judicial custody unless he secures relief from a higher court or another competent judicial authority.The investigation into the alleged school approval scam is continuing, with investigators examining the financial transactions, statements and other evidence connected to the case.It is important to note that rejection of bail does not amount to a finding of guilt. The allegations against the former minister remain subject to judicial proceedings.