DVAC raids 19 locations linked to former minister KN Nehru
The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption has conducted searches at 19 locations in Chennai, Tiruchirappalli and Coimbatore in connection with an investigation involving former Tamil Nadu minister and DMK leader KN Nehru.
The searches relate to alleged irregularities in the awarding of tenders in the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department.
The case follows allegations raised by the Enforcement Directorate concerning suspected tender manipulation and a cash-for-jobs network. The ED had previously estimated the alleged irregularities at around Rs 1,020 crore.
Following communication from the ED, the Tamil Nadu government initiated further proceedings. After a legal challenge by Nehru before the Madras High Court, an FIR was eventually registered by the state government in June, following court directions. A review petition filed by Nehru is still pending. The latest DVAC searches were carried out as part of the investigation based on that FIR.
DMK president MK Stalin described the raids as politically motivated. He argued that the action had been taken while the matter was before the High Court and during the ongoing Assembly session.
Stalin accused the TVK government of using the investigation to divert public attention and said the DMK would face the proceedings through legal channels.
The TVK government, however, has defended the DVAC operation, maintaining that anyone found responsible for corruption would face action under the law.
Vijay had earlier said that three files relating to alleged corruption during the previous government were before him and that action would be taken at the appropriate time.
Since taking office, the TVK government has seen vigilance searches involving properties linked to former ministers E Velu, V Senthilbalaji and now KN Nehru.