New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation has registered a case against P. Elangovan for allegedly impersonating an Under Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office and using the fake identity to secure special privileges, including VIP access at temples in Tamil Nadu and influence over government functionaries. The case was initiated after a complaint from the PMO flagged a wedding invitation card that described him as a PMO official.
Wedding Invitation Triggered PMO Scrutiny
According to officials, the matter came under scrutiny after a wedding invitation card carrying P. Elangovan’s name as an Under Secretary in the PMO was brought to the notice of the Prime Minister’s Office. Verification by the PMO found that no person by that name was employed as an Under Secretary or in any official capacity.
FCRF’s Flagship Cyber Law Certification Returns With a New Four-Week Cohort
Following the confirmation, the matter was formally referred to the CBI. The agency had earlier opened a preliminary enquiry on January 8, 2026, before registering a criminal case based on its findings.
VIP Temple Access Allegedly Sought Through Fake Identity
Investigators found that the accused had allegedly used the false identity as early as 2023 to obtain administrative facilitation at religious institutions. One key incident cited in the probe involves a phone call allegedly made to V. Kumaresan, then Joint Commissioner of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department in Tamil Nadu.
During the call, Elangovan allegedly introduced himself as a PMO official and requested VIP darshan arrangements for his relatives at the Annamalai Temple in Tiruvannamalai. The official, believing the claim to be genuine, reportedly facilitated the request.
The CBI is also examining allegations that similar requests were made on multiple occasions for temple visits by the accused’s friends and relatives across Tamil Nadu. These requests were allegedly entertained because officials believed he was associated with the PMO.
CBI Examines Records And Wider Influence
The case also includes an allegation that Elangovan persuaded the same official to include his name in the wedding invitation of the official’s son, scheduled for April 9, 2025. Investigators are examining whether this was done to help him claim official leave benefits or workplace recognition by reinforcing his fabricated identity.
Sources indicate that the CBI is reviewing communication records, call details and documentary evidence, including the disputed wedding invitation card. The agency is also assessing how many officials were influenced and whether any further individuals were misled under false pretences.
Officials familiar with the probe said the case involves alleged misuse of institutional trust by presenting oneself as a senior government functionary. The investigation is continuing, and further legal action will depend on the evidence gathered during the inquiry.
