R Veeramani
CHENNAI: The world of a granite baron, who had his corporate footprint in about 22 countries, has now shrunk to a 10X15 feet prison room, a bed, a chair, an English business newspaper and brief walks along a CCTV-monitored corridor at Puzhal prison in Chennai. First arrested on Aug 29 in connection with a child rape case, Gem Granites chairman R Veeramani, 84, is now a Goondas Act detenue facing four child rape cases so far. About 15 other inmates were also staying in the block. Prison officials said he was taking at least 15 tablets prescribed by his family doctor.
Prison officials said Veeramani maintained a low profile inside the prison and appeared withdrawn during his interactions with inmates and staff. His movement outside his room is limited and he walks along the corridor two or three times a week and rarely interacts with other inmates. His interaction with prison personnel too is muted. He is seen at the prison hospital during routine blood pressure checks and other medical examinations. Veeramani had initially been housed in the A-class block located behind the prison hospital. He was later shifted to the HS block after prison authorities assessed that his safety required greater restrictions on his movement and access. Veeramani’s visitors include his daughter and a few lawyers. Veeramani’ss health is being closely watched by the prison authorities, as he is a heart patient. Prior to his arrest, though he had been given medical advice to go in for a surgery, he opted for medication. He had also been undergoing treatment for diabetes and hypertension. In recent days, he developed severe vomiting following stomach upset and was treated in the prison hospital. Additional medicines were prescribed after his health condition worsened a few days ago.