Chennai: A major political controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam alleged that attempts were made to destabilise the government led by Chief Minister Vijay by offering large sums of money to its legislators. According to the party, several MLAs were allegedly offered between ₹10 crore and ₹50 crore to resign and help bring down the government.
₹35 Crore Offer Alleged
TVK MLA N. Ilaiyaraja, who represents the Uthangarai Assembly constituency, alleged that a man identified as Thirunavukkarasu offered him ₹35 crore in exchange for supporting a move against the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
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The legislator claimed that he rejected the offer and later received alleged threats directed at him and his family.
Based on the complaint, police arrested three accused identified as Thirunavukkarasu, Naresh and Tyagarajan. Investigators are examining the alleged roles, communications and possible links of the accused as part of the ongoing investigation.
Political Allegations Fly
Senior TVK leader R. Nirmal Kumar alleged that the purported operation to lure legislators was orchestrated by senior leaders of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. He specifically named DMK chief M.K. Stalin and opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin while making the allegations.
The party also accused AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami of attempting to come to power through means outside the normal democratic process.
However, police have not confirmed the involvement of any political leader, and no such conclusion has been reached during the investigation so far.
Probe Still Underway
Officials said evidence is being collected and examined to establish the full circumstances surrounding the case. Investigators are expected to analyse communications, witness statements and any financial or digital material linked to the alleged bribery attempt.
As of the time of reporting, the opposition leaders and parties named in the allegations had not issued an official response.
Officials said further legal action will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation. The criminal liability or involvement of any individual, including those named in the allegations, will be determined only after the investigation and judicial process are completed.
