Corruption Allegations Rock Tamil Nadu Government
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, who has championed a zero-tolerance stance on corruption, is facing new scrutiny. Former BJP state chief K. Annamalai has claimed that certain ministers in Vijay’s government are asking for kickbacks from contractors involved in government projects.
At an environmental awareness event in Chennai over the weekend, Annamalai provided bold accusations, stating he has audio recordings that back up his claims. He urged Chief Minister Vijay to take action against the implicated ministers and officials before the situation escalates further.
Annamalai acknowledged Vijay’s strong anti-corruption message but stated that some Cabinet members are now reportedly asking for percentages from government contracts. He emphasized that this behavior is a shift from the previous norm, where major tenders were generally free of such demands.
The former BJP leader mentioned that some ministers are telling contractors they need a share of the earnings because they spent money during their electoral campaigns. “They are requesting two, three, or even four percent from the contractors,” he alleged.
Annamalai called on Chief Minister Vijay to maintain stricter oversight of his ministers and senior officials. He suggested implementing regular reviews to curb corruption within the administration. “You mentioned during your Independence Day speech that corruption must be eliminated in our lifetime. It’s essential to keep a close watch on ministers and officials so that corruption doesn’t take root,” he remarked.
This accusation comes at a time when the chief minister has frequently highlighted corruption in his public speeches. In his first Independence Day address, Vijay reaffirmed his government’s commitment to eradicating corruption, insisting that government funds are being safeguarded from private interests.
He has also outright condemned bribery in public forums, encouraging citizens not to comply with demands for bribes. “If someone asks you for money, just say no. I will support you. If they persist, remind them that our leader, Vijay, is in charge of this state,” he declared, eliciting applause from the audience.
Annamalai’s allegations pose a direct challenge to the anti-corruption image that Chief Minister Vijay has been working to build for his administration.
