Should the Madras HC Transfer TASMAC Scam FIRs to CBI?
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Synopsis
A significant PIL has emerged in the Madras High Court, aiming to shift over 40 FIRs regarding alleged TASMAC irregularities to the CBI. This case raises critical questions about transparency and accountability in the investigation of a scam worth Rs 1,000 crore. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story.
Key Takeaways
- PIL Filed: A public interest litigation has been registered in Madras HC.
- Transfer Request: The petition seeks to move investigations to the CBI.
- Serious Allegations: The case involves overpricing and tender manipulation.
- Financial Impact: The alleged scam is worth Rs 1,000 crore.
- Ongoing Investigations: ED has conducted searches and initiated probes.
Chennai, May 14 (NationPress) A public interest litigation (PIL) has been submitted to the Madras High Court, requesting the relocation of more than 40 FIRs concerning purported irregularities within the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) from the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
A bench led by Justices G.R. Swaminathan and V. Lakshminarayanan issued a notice on Wednesday to the DVAC, CBI, and the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which must be addressed by next week.
The ED had commenced a money laundering probe based on FIRs lodged between 2017 and 2024.
This PIL was initiated by advocate K. Venkatachalapathy from Tirunelveli, represented by attorney V.R. Shanmuganathan.
The petitioner claims that the FIRs relate to issues such as liquor overpricing, manipulation in the tendering process, and other irregularities involving TASMAC personnel and various parties, totaling a scam estimated at Rs 1,000 crore.
As stated in the plea, the ED filed an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, and executed a search and seizure operation at TASMAC's Chennai headquarters from March 6 to 8, 2025.
However, the state government contested the ED's actions via a writ petition, which the court subsequently dismissed.
During the proceedings, petitioners urged the DVAC to provide a status report on the current investigation.
In response, Advocate General P.S. Raman and Additional Advocate General J. Ravindran requested a three-week period to submit a counter affidavit.
The bench instructed the State to present its arguments on May 21, postponing the matter.
The petitioner challenged the State's reluctance to allow central agency scrutiny, voicing concerns over reports indicating that some FIRs had been closed. He contended that only a neutral and transparent investigation could be guaranteed by transferring the case to the CBI. Additionally, he mentioned that representations had already been sent to the Centre and the CBI on May 1 and again on May 8.
Point of View
This situation highlights the ongoing struggle for transparency in governance. The call for a CBI investigation into the TASMAC irregularities is indicative of a broader demand for accountability in public institutions. As we navigate these complex issues, it's essential to ensure that justice prevails and public trust is restored.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of the PIL filed in Madras HC?
The PIL seeks to transfer over 40 FIRs related to alleged TASMAC irregularities from the DVAC to the CBI for a more transparent investigation.
Who filed the PIL and on what grounds?
The PIL was filed by advocate K. Venkatachalapathy, who claims the FIRs involve serious allegations such as liquor overpricing and manipulation in the tendering process.
What are the allegations against TASMAC?
The allegations include overpricing of liquor, manipulation of the tendering process, and other irregularities, amounting to a scam worth approximately Rs 1,000 crore.
What actions has the ED taken regarding this case?
The ED initiated a money laundering investigation and conducted search operations at TASMAC's Chennai headquarters based on the FIRs.
Why does the petitioner want the investigation transferred to the CBI?
The petitioner believes that a transfer to the CBI would ensure a more neutral and transparent investigation, addressing concerns about the state's oversight.
