The Tamil Nadu government has clarified that the recent raids by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) against senior DMK leader and former minister E V Velu are based on concrete evidence and not motivated by political vendetta. The raids, conducted on Thursday, targeted 14 locations including Velu's residences and offices in Tiruvannamalai and other parts of the state.
Minister's Statement on Raids
A state minister, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the DVAC actions are part of routine anti-corruption drives and are supported by substantial evidence gathered over months of investigation. "There is no political vendetta involved. The raids are based on evidence collected against the former minister," the minister said, dismissing allegations of targeting opposition leaders.
Details of the Searches
The DVAC teams simultaneously conducted searches at multiple properties linked to Velu, including his official residence in Chennai, his farmhouse in Tiruvannamalai, and offices of his family members. Officials seized documents, digital records, and assets suspected to be disproportionate to his known sources of income. The raids come amid ongoing investigations into alleged corruption during Velu's tenure as a minister.
Political Reactions
The DMK has condemned the raids, calling them a politically motivated witch-hunt. Party spokesperson accused the ruling party of misusing investigative agencies to harass opposition leaders ahead of the upcoming local body elections. However, the government maintains that the DVAC operates independently and that all actions are legally justified.
Impact on State Politics
These raids have intensified the political climate in Tamil Nadu, with opposition parties demanding a probe into the government's alleged misuse of power. The DMK has announced plans to hold protests across the state. The government, meanwhile, has urged calm and reiterated its commitment to transparency and rule of law. The case is expected to be a major talking point in the upcoming legislative session.
