The Madras High Court on Thursday directed its registry to list a petition seeking the registration of a criminal case against Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor-politician Vijay for alleged income suppression. The petition, filed by a social activist, accuses Vijay of concealing his income and evading taxes, and demands a probe under relevant penal provisions.
Petition Alleges Fraud and Criminal Conspiracy
The petitioner has sought the registration of a case under sections of the Indian Penal Code, including fraud, criminal conspiracy, and cheating, along with provisions of the Income Tax Act. The plea claims that Vijay, despite earning substantial income from his film career and other ventures, suppressed his actual earnings in tax returns, causing loss to the exchequer.
High Court's Directive
When the matter came up for hearing before a division bench comprising Justice R. Suresh Kumar and Justice G. Arul Murugan, the court observed that the petition raised serious allegations that required examination. The bench directed the registry to list the petition for further hearing, allowing the petitioner to argue the case on its merits.
The court also issued notice to the Tamil Nadu government and the income tax department, seeking their responses. The next hearing is scheduled for next week.
Vijay's Political Career
Vijay, a prominent actor in Tamil cinema, launched his political party TVK in 2023 and has been actively involved in political activities. This is not the first time he has faced legal scrutiny; earlier petitions have questioned his assets and tax compliance. However, this is the first instance where the court has directly intervened to list a plea for a criminal case.
The development comes amid heightened political tensions in Tamil Nadu, with Vijay's party gaining traction among youth. Legal experts say that if the court admits the petition, it could lead to a full-fledged investigation into the actor's financial dealings.
The petitioner's counsel argued that Vijay's alleged income suppression is a clear violation of tax laws and constitutes a criminal offense. The counsel also pointed out that the actor's lifestyle and investments do not match his declared income, warranting a thorough probe.
The Madras High Court's direction marks a significant step in the legal proceedings against the TVK chief. The outcome of the case could have implications for Vijay's political career and his party's standing in the state.
