In a major development that has sent shockwaves through the Tamil film industry, actor Meka Srikanth was arrested on June 24, 2025, by the Anti-Narcotics Intelligence Unit of Chennai Police in connection with a cocaine possession and consumption case. Srikanth, who rose to fame with acclaimed roles in films like Roja Kootam, April Madhathil, and Shankar’s Nanban, now finds himself at the center of a narcotics investigation that stretches beyond the glitzy world of cinema.
The chain of events leading to his arrest began on June 17, when a violent altercation broke out at a bar in Nungambakkam involving several individuals, including former AIADMK functionary T. Prasad. Police arrested Prasad and, during interrogation, uncovered leads pointing to a widespread cocaine distribution network. One of the names that surfaced during this investigation was that of Srikanth. The arrest of another suspect, Pradeep, who was found in possession of 11 grams of cocaine, further solidified these leads. Pradeep’s subsequent questioning reportedly revealed Srikanth as a regular consumer, prompting authorities to intensify their probe.
On June 23, Srikanth was summoned to the Chennai Police Commissioner’s office, where he underwent a nine-hour interrogation. Police also collected a blood sample from the actor for forensic testing to determine recent narcotics use. According to statements made by senior officers, they had gathered compelling digital and documentary evidence against Srikanth. This included chat logs, phone data, financial transactions, and payment trails indicating that the actor had allegedly purchased cocaine on at least 40 separate occasions. Each transaction was for approximately one gram, priced around ₹12,000, suggesting an estimated total expenditure of over ₹4.5 lakh on cocaine.
Investigators allege that the drugs were not locally sourced but were part of an international cartel network, with cocaine trafficked into India via Africa and distributed through Bengaluru. The suppliers reportedly used encrypted messaging platforms and digital wallets to manage orders and payments. Police believe that Srikanth primarily consumed the drugs in private settings such as high-profile parties and exclusive clubs. While there is no indication yet that he was involved in drug distribution, authorities are treating him as a privileged user within a more extensive ecosystem of supply and consumption.
Following the interrogation, police raided Srikanth’s residence in Chennai, reportedly uncovering further evidence that corroborated the allegations. He was then placed under arrest and presented before a magistrate. The court remanded Srikanth to judicial custody until July 7, 2025, pending further forensic and digital analysis. His legal team has not issued a formal statement, though sources suggest that a bail petition could be filed once the medical reports are received.
This arrest marks yet another troubling episode in a series of drug-related controversies that have plagued the South Indian film industry in recent years. Actors such as Shine Tom Chacko and Sreenath Bhasi from the Malayalam film industry have previously faced similar charges, sparking public debate over the prevalence of drug use among celebrities and the need for stronger deterrents.
Public opinion on Srikanth’s arrest has been sharply divided. While some fans and colleagues have expressed shock and disbelief, others have called for stricter enforcement of anti-narcotics laws. Notably, radio host RJ Suchitra took to social media to criticize what she perceived as a soft narrative emerging in some media coverage. In a sarcastic tweet, she remarked, “Cocaine was GIVEN to the actor, ah? So now cocaine is the villain and Srikanth is the victim?”
Authorities have indicated that the investigation is far from over. More individuals connected to this case may be called in for questioning, and the network that supplied the drugs is also under closer scrutiny. If found guilty under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, Srikanth could face serious legal consequences, including imprisonment ranging from six months to ten years, depending on the final weight of evidence and the court’s interpretation of his role in the case.
The arrest of Srikanth has not only brought the spotlight back on the issue of substance abuse in the entertainment industry but also raised urgent questions about the accountability of public figures and the influence of narcotics in elite social circles. As the case unfolds in the coming weeks, it is likely to have lasting implications both for Srikanth’s career and for how drug offences are viewed and prosecuted within the celebrity ecosystem.
Read related story: Shine Tom Chacko controversy: Is Mollywood trapped in a narcotic haze?