The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is currently conducting raids at properties belonging to former AIADMK minister Vaithilingam, based on allegations of illegal money transactions. The searches are being carried out at his residence in Orathanadu, Thanjavur district, his room at the MLA hostel in Chennai, and his son’s house.
Background of the Case
The case against former minister Vaithilingam is related to allegations of misusing his position during his tenure as the Minister of Housing and Urban Development from 2011 to 2016, under the AIADMK government led by former Chief Minister Jayalalithaa.
In 2016, a private company sought approval for constructing multi-story apartments in Perungalathur. It was alleged that Vaithilingam, who was the minister at the time, received a bribe of ₹27.90 crore for granting this approval. The Anti-Corruption Department registered a case stating that the bribe amount was falsely shown as a loan to a company where Vaithilingam’s sons, Prabhu and Shanmuga Prabhu, were directors.
ED’s Investigation and Raids
Following these allegations, the Anti-Corruption Department conducted an investigation, which revealed that the ₹27.90 crore had been used to purchase multiple properties, suggesting that the funds were laundered and involved illegal transactions. As a result, the ED is now conducting raids at various locations connected to Vaithilingam and his family.
Individuals Named in the Case
The case has been registered against 11 individuals, including former minister Vaithilingam, his sons Prabhu and Shanmuga Prabhu, and private company representatives such as Panneerselvam and Ramesh. Charges have been filed under five different sections related to money laundering and corruption. These developments indicate strict measures being taken by the ED to trace and curb illegal transactions.
Political Background
Vaithilingam is known to be a supporter of former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam. He was elected as an MLA from the Orathanadu constituency in the 2021 state assembly elections. With the ongoing investigations, these legal troubles might have a significant impact on his political career.
Outcome of the Raids
The ED’s raids are ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge soon. These raids aim to uncover more information about the alleged illegal financial transactions.
This situation has brought to light questions surrounding the permissions granted during Vaithilingam’s tenure as a minister and the financial dealings behind them. The ED’s actions highlight the broader effort to identify and curb illegal money transactions, ensuring economic transparency and accountability.
