Is BJP Misusing Central Agencies Against Opposition?
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Synopsis
In a recent turn of events, DMK leader Kanimozhi accuses the BJP of misusing central agencies in a politically charged atmosphere. As the ED conducts raids on Tamil Nadu Minister I. Periyasamy, the DMK stands firm against intimidation tactics, promising to fight back. What does this mean for the political landscape in Tamil Nadu?
Key Takeaways
- ED raids target I. Periyasamy as part of a money laundering probe.
- Kanimozhi accuses BJP of political maneuvering through central agencies.
- DMK remains steadfast in its resolve against intimidation.
- Periyasamy's case involves allegations dating back to 2006-2010.
- Ongoing investigations into other DMK leaders add to the party's challenges.
Chennai, Aug 16 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at the residences and properties of senior Tamil Nadu Minister I. Periyasamy on Saturday, provoking a fierce reaction from the DMK. Party leader and Thoothukudi MP Kanimozhi accused the BJP of deliberately misusing central agencies to target opposition members.
The DMK leader asserted that neither the party nor its leaders would succumb to such intimidation tactics.
The ED's raids targeted multiple locations associated with Periyasamy and his son, DMK MLA I.P. Senthilkumar, in Chennai and their hometown Dindigul, as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation.
These actions are in line with previous maneuvers against other DMK ministers and stem from a directive issued by the Madras High Court related to a disproportionate assets case. Kanimozhi reacted vehemently, claiming that agencies such as the Income Tax Department, ED, and CBI have been “weaponized” by the BJP to silence dissenting voices.
“On one hand, they misuse the Election Commission by undermining democracy through the Special Intensive Revision in Bihar. On the other, they repeatedly unleash IT, ED, and CBI against senior DMK leaders. One such raid is happening today. But the DMK will confront this,” she informed reporters.
Kanimozhi emphasized that Periyasamy has a longstanding history of overcoming challenges, remaining resilient in his political journey.
“Periyasamy has remained loyal to the DMK during tough times. No amount of intimidation will deter our leaders or demoralize our cadre,” she stated.
The case against Periyasamy dates back to his tenure from 2006 to 2010, wherein he was accused of accumulating wealth amounting to Rs 2.1 crore in his name and those of his family members, disproportionate to his known income.
A special court had previously discharged him and his family, but the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) challenged this decision, prompting the High Court in April to order the framing of charges and a day-to-day trial to be concluded within six months.
The ongoing raids add to the increasing pressure on the ruling party, as other senior DMK leaders, including former Higher Education Minister K. Ponmudy and Minister V. Senthil Balaji, are also under investigation by the ED for separate cases.
Ponmudy faces scrutiny over alleged illegal sand mining, while Balaji is involved in a money laundering case related to a cash-for-jobs scam.
Reaffirming the DMK’s determination, Kanimozhi concluded that the party will continue to stand united against what she termed politically motivated actions.
“These raids won’t weaken us. Instead, they will solidify our resolve to resist and retaliate,” she declared.
Point of View
This ongoing saga highlights the escalating tensions between political parties in India. The allegations against the BJP regarding the misuse of central agencies raise concerns about the integrity of governance. As the situation unfolds, it is imperative for all stakeholders to uphold democratic values and ensure accountability in political processes.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED's raids on I. Periyasamy?
The ED's raids were part of a money laundering investigation related to allegations of disproportionate assets against I. Periyasamy, stemming from a Madras High Court directive.
How has Kanimozhi responded to the ED's actions?
Kanimozhi has accused the BJP of using central agencies to intimidate and silence the opposition, asserting that the DMK will not be deterred by such tactics.
What are the implications of these raids for the DMK?
The raids add pressure on the DMK, which is already facing scrutiny over other leaders involved in various investigations, but the party remains resolute in its stance.
