Custody of Nirmala extended

The judicial custody of suspended assistant professor Nirmala Devi, accused in the audiotape scandal, was extended till May 23, on Wednesday.

Ms. Devi, who is accused of attempting to traffic four college students to do some favours for higher officials of the Madurai Kamaraj University in return for money and higher marks, was produced before the Judicial Magistrate II Court here.

Magistrate Thilakeswari ordered extension of her remand.

Meanwhile, a house break-in was reported at Ms. Devi’s residence at Athipatti in Aruppukottai. The police said that the lock of the front door was broken open and the almirahs were rummaged through.

The police said the possession of the house, which was sealed by the CB-CID that was investigating the scandal, was handed back to Ms. Devi’s family on April 26. Her husband Saravanapandi had come to the house on May 7 to collect dresses for his daughters.

The police said that it was only an attempt to burgle and would not have an impact on the case as the CB-CID had already searched the house.