Vigilance Raids Former Minister’s Linked Properties Across 41 Tamil Nadu Locations

The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) on Tuesday conducted searches at 41 locations across Tamil Nadu in connection with an alleged case involving irregularities and misappropriation linked to the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC). The searches targeted locations associated with former Tamil Nadu minister and DMK MLA V Senthilbalaji, as well as several others connected with the case. DVAC officials carried out searches at Senthilbalaji’s residence in Karur and at the premises of his associates in different parts of the state.

Officials also questioned the former minister at a private hotel in Chennai, where he is currently staying. The investigation is related to allegations of malpractice involving the state-run liquor retailer TASMAC. The vigilance agency registered a complaint against Senthilbalaji, a former TASMAC Managing Director, and several officials of the corporation over alleged irregularities in the functioning of the organisation. The complaint reportedly concerns accusations of financial misconduct and administrative lapses within TASMAC operations.

Senthilbalaji had previously served as the Minister for Prohibition and Excise in the earlier DMK government, a portfolio that placed him in charge of matters related to TASMAC. The corporation plays a major role in Tamil Nadu’s liquor distribution system and is one of the state government’s significant revenue-generating entities. The latest searches are part of the DVAC’s ongoing efforts to investigate allegations surrounding the operations of TASMAC and the role of individuals connected with its administration. Officials gathered documents and other materials from multiple locations as part of the investigation process.

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The action against Senthilbalaji comes after a series of legal and political developments involving the former minister. He has previously faced investigations by central agencies in separate cases, and his political career has remained under scrutiny due to various allegations. The DMK leader has denied wrongdoing in previous cases and maintained that investigations against him are politically motivated. His supporters have alleged that the action by investigating agencies is aimed at targeting opposition leaders. The DVAC has not disclosed detailed findings from Tuesday’s searches or indicated whether any arrests will follow.

Officials are expected to examine the documents and evidence collected during the raids before deciding on further action in the case. The TASMAC-related allegations have drawn political attention in Tamil Nadu, with opposition parties demanding transparency and accountability in the functioning of the state-run corporation. The government and investigative agencies have maintained that legal procedures are being followed and that any wrongdoing will be dealt with according to law.As the investigation progresses, the focus will remain on the evidence collected during the searches and the statements recorded from individuals connected to the case. The DVAC’s findings will determine the next course of action in the alleged TASMAC malpractice case involving Senthilbalaji and other officials.

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