Less than two months after Joseph C Vijay became Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, claims of efforts to destabilize his administration through legislator defections have stirred state politics. Three individuals were detained on Wednesday, and a TVK minister stated that sums reaching Rs 50 crore were proposed by persons connected to senior DMK figures to encourage TVK lawmakers to change allegiance.
Following the accusations, Chief Minister Vijay held discussions with coalition partners in Chennai on Wednesday, while the DMK requested an inquiry into the influence claims.
The issue arose when TVK legislator N Ilayaraja reported receiving an offer of Rs 35 crore to alter his position ahead of a planned Assembly vote on a resolution.
An individual named Thirunavukkarasu reportedly reached out to the legislator, stating he represented a group called Indian Political Democratic Strategies, and subsequently proposed payment for backing during the vote.
The legislator declined and filed a police report, also noting threats against himself and relatives.
Tamil Nadu Police filed a case based on the complaint and detained Thirunavukkarasu along with two associates, Naresh and Thiyagarajan.
The dispute escalated when TVK minister Nirmal Kumar accused opposition DMK of involvement in the alleged influence efforts.
He asserted that senior DMK figure Senthil Balaji contacted multiple TVK MLAs with offers up to Rs 50 crore, actions said to have approval from DMK president MK Stalin and deputy Udhayanidhi Stalin.
Kumar added that DMK figures threatened an MLA who later contacted police, and urged the leaders to cease such activities.
Police indicated one accused, Naresh, maintained contact with Senthil Balaji’s brother Ashok Kumar regarding offer amounts and targeted legislators.
The accused reportedly told MLA Ilayaraja about a planned no-confidence motion and offered Rs 35 crore for a specific vote, threatening harm upon refusal.
Authorities are reviewing connections and probing all linked persons.
DMK responded with its own accusations, alleging systematic efforts by Vijay’s party to undermine the election outcome via inducements, and submitted complaints to the Governor and anti-corruption body seeking an FIR and full investigation.
DMK referenced recent comments by MDMK leader Vaiko and claimed Vijay offered financial support for by-elections if legislators resigned, calling for impartial examination of conspiracy and misconduct claims.
TVK convened its first alliance meeting on Wednesday with partners including Congress, VCK, IUML, MDMK, CPI and CPI(M).
Discussions centered on government stability and completing the full term.
TVK secured 108 seats in the April 23 elections, short of majority, with support from other parties providing the balance.
