In a chilling revelation that may redefine the trajectory of the Ajith Kumar custodial death probe, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has discovered a fake number plate hidden inside a police vehicle used during the alleged illegal detention and torture of the victim. This single piece of evidence is now being considered a crucial link pointing to premeditated misconduct and possible cover-up by law enforcement personnel.
What Was Discovered?
During a forensic inspection and reconstruction of key scenes, the CBI found a Chennai-registered number plate (TN 01 G 0491) concealed within a tempo traveler officially registered under TN 63 G 0491—a Sivaganga district vehicle. Both plates belonged to the same model, raising immediate questions about why a second plate existed at all, and more importantly, why it was hidden.
“This is not a case of administrative oversight. Carrying a fake number plate in a government vehicle used during custodial transfers is a serious criminal offense,” a senior CBI officer told sources under anonymity.
Why This Fake Plate Discovery Is a Big Deal
1. Indicates Intent to Deceive
Swapping or hiding number plates can help avoid being tracked by CCTV cameras, bypass surveillance, or create false alibis. It suggests the involved officers anticipated scrutiny and possibly sought to erase evidence of Ajith’s illegal transport and torture.
2. Supports the Theory of Premeditation
This isn’t a spontaneous act. Bringing and hiding an extra plate inside the vehicle signals a pre-planned operation. It challenges the initial police claim that Ajith Kumar collapsed due to illness and opens the door for murder and conspiracy charges.
3. Violates Indian Vehicle & Criminal Law
Using a fake or unauthorized number plate violates:
- Sections 420 and 468 of the IPC (cheating and forgery)
- Motor Vehicles Act provisions on tampering with registration
- New Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) codes related to evidence destruction
CBI’s Next Steps
To further verify the usage of the fake plate, the CBI is:
- Reviewing CCTV footage from local highways and junctions between Thiruppuvanam and Madapuram temple.
- Matching timestamps of vehicle movement against witness statements.
- Analyzing digital records such as call logs, tower pings, and police station entries.
Forensic experts are also conducting paint and imprint analysis to determine if the fake plate was ever installed on the vehicle during Ajith’s custody.
Who Is Under the Scanner?
Five police officers—including a suspended sub-inspector and constable—are currently under arrest. The CBI is now closely questioning:
- The officer who procured the plate
- The driver and constable who accompanied Ajith in the tempo traveler
- Supervisors who failed to report or acted to suppress the discovery
The identity of the person who fabricated the plate is also being traced through vehicle records and local workshops.
Public Reaction
The fake number plate has intensified public outrage and renewed calls for police accountability. Civil rights groups argue this points to an organized system of torture and deception used against detainees from marginalized communities.
“If the police themselves use fake plates, what hope does the Constitution hold for ordinary citizens?” tweeted a prominent human rights advocate.
Conclusion: The Plate That Changed the Case
While many custodial death cases are dismissed for “lack of evidence,” the discovery of a fake number plate in Ajith Kumar’s case offers tangible proof of deliberate wrongdoing. It’s no longer just about what happened inside the station—it’s about what they tried to hide outside.
As the CBI prepares to file its final report by August 20, 2025, all eyes are now on how this key forensic find will shape the legal future of the accused officers—and whether India will finally take strong action against custodial abuse.
