In a decisive move against alleged corruption, the Madras High Court has directed the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Department to register a case based on evidence provided by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The order targets irregularities in appointments and tender processes within Tamil Nadu’s Municipal Administration Department.
The court bench, comprising Chief Justice M.M. Srivatsav and Justice G. Arul Murugan, observed prima facie evidence of wrongdoing. This follows ED’s letter to the Tamil Nadu DGP highlighting bribery allegations against Minister K.N. Nehru in recruitment and tender allotments.
AIADMK MPs Inbadorai and Adinarayanan had filed petitions urging action. During hearings, the ED confirmed sharing investigation evidence from another case with the DGP. The state government claimed it had forwarded the ED letter to vigilance authorities for probe.
Dismissing the need for preliminary inquiry, the judges noted the ED’s documents as sufficient proof. They mandated immediate FIR registration, thorough investigation, and strict legal action.
This development underscores ongoing scrutiny of governance in Tamil Nadu, particularly in public works and hiring practices. The order could lead to broader accountability measures across departments.
As political tensions rise, the case may expose deeper systemic issues, prompting calls for transparency reforms. Stakeholders await further updates on the investigation’s progress.