Enforcement Directorate Raids Tamil Nadu Minister I. Periyasamy in Money Laundering Probe
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at multiple locations linked to Tamil Nadu Rural Development Minister I. Periyasamy and his son, MLA I.P. Senthil Kumar. The raids are part of an ongoing investigation into a money laundering case under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Periyasamy is a senior leader of the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party. The action marks another instance of a central agency probing a high-profile politician in the state.
Unpacked:
The case concerns alleged disproportionate assets worth Rs 2.01 crore accumulated between 2006 and 2010. It was first investigated by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC). Although Periyasamy and his family were acquitted by a trial court, the Madras High Court recently set aside this acquittal and ordered a fresh trial.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is a central agency responsible for investigating economic crimes, including money laundering. It operates under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), allowing it to conduct searches, seize assets, and prosecute offenders in cases involving illicit financial activities.
Raids by central agencies like the ED on high-profile opposition politicians in Tamil Nadu have often sparked allegations of political vendetta. The DMK and its allies have previously accused the central government of using investigative agencies to target its leaders, which is a recurring theme in Indian politics.
I. Periyasamy is the Minister for Rural Development in Tamil Nadu and a senior DMK leader, serving as Deputy General Secretary of the party. His son, I.P. Senthil Kumar, is a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) representing the Palani constituency.