Why Did TN Cong President Selvaperunthugai Criticize ED Raids at Minister Periyasamy’s Properties?
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Synopsis
Tamil Nadu Congress leader K. Selvaperunthugai is raising alarms over the ED's raids on Minister Periyasamy's properties, calling these actions politically driven and aimed at silencing opposition. With upcoming elections, the repercussions could be significant.
Key Takeaways
- Selvaperunthugai condemns ED raids as politically motivated.
- Raids conducted at multiple properties linked to Minister Periyasamy.
- ED investigations focus on property and financial irregularities.
- Political tensions escalate in Tamil Nadu amidst upcoming elections.
- Opposition claims misuse of enforcement agencies by the central government.
Chennai, Aug 16 (NationPress) The president of the Tamil Nadu Congress, K. Selvaperunthugai, has vehemently condemned the recent Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids on properties associated with Rural Development Minister I. Periyasamy.
He labeled these actions as politically motivated, accusing the BJP-led central government of employing enforcement agencies to target opposition figures.
“The raids on Minister I. Periyasamy’s residences, including those of his son and daughter, are merely politically driven attempts to intimidate and silence dissenting voices. This is an effort to undermine our democratic system and destabilize governance. I unequivocally denounce this interference from the Enforcement Directorate,” he stated in a press release.
The ED executed extensive searches at Periyasamy’s home on Greenways Road in Chennai, at his MLA guest house in Thiruvallikeni, and several properties located in Dindigul and Madurai.
Additionally, raids took place at the homes of his son, DMK MLA I. P. Senthil Kumar, and daughter Indrani.
Officials were reported to be examining property records and financial documents as part of an ongoing inquiry under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
In Dindigul, tensions escalated as local residents attempted to obstruct ED officials from entering Periyasamy’s residence in Durairaj Nagar. Police and CRPF personnel were dispatched to ensure order and allow the searches to proceed without interruptions.
According to ED sources, the investigation centers on potential discrepancies involving property ownership and financial dealings.
This action has sparked significant political backlash throughout Tamil Nadu, with the ruling DMK and its allies accusing central agencies of being misused to target and harass political adversaries.
Earlier this year, the ED investigated alleged irregularities in TASMAC operations amounting to nearly Rs 1,000 crore, but the Supreme Court intervened to uphold federal principles.
Selvaperunthugai’s remarks contribute to the mounting criticism regarding the Centre’s management of enforcement agencies in the state.
While the ED asserts that the searches are part of a legitimate investigation, opposition leaders argue that the raids exemplify selective targeting intended to tarnish the reputations of senior ministers in the state.
With the 2026 Assembly elections on the horizon, the implications of these raids and subsequent actions are anticipated to bear considerable political significance.
Point of View
It is paramount to recognize that while the ED asserts its actions are rooted in legitimate investigative concerns, the opposition's allegations of selective targeting highlight a critical discourse around the impartiality of enforcement agencies. It is essential to maintain a balanced perspective as political tensions rise in Tamil Nadu.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Selvaperunthugai's condemnation of the ED raids?
Selvaperunthugai condemned the ED raids on Minister Periyasamy’s properties as politically motivated actions aimed at intimidating opposition leaders.
What areas were affected by the ED raids?
The ED conducted raids at Periyasamy’s home in Chennai, his MLA guest house, and multiple properties in Dindigul and Madurai.
What are the allegations against the ED?
Opposition leaders allege that the ED is being misused by the central government to target political opponents and destabilize the democratic process.
How have local residents reacted to the ED's actions?
In Dindigul, local residents attempted to prevent ED officials from entering Periyasamy’s home, leading to police intervention.
What political impact could these raids have?
With the 2026 Assembly elections approaching, the outcome of these raids is expected to significantly influence the political landscape in Tamil Nadu.
