ED Conducts Searches Linked to Tamil Nadu Minister: A Deep Dive into the Investigation
Chennai: In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) initiated searches on Thursday at various locations associated with Tamil Nadu’s Electricity and Prohibition and Excise Minister, V. Senthil Balaji. The operations took place in Chennai and Karur, targeting offices of the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) as well as breweries and distilleries that supply it.
What Sparked the ED’s Investigation?
While the ED has not publicly disclosed the specific basis for these searches, insiders reveal that the agency has registered a new case stemming from multiple FIRs filed by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) between 2016 and 2021. These FIRs center around seizures of unaccounted cash from Tasmac outlets, raising suspicions that this illicit money may be linked to money laundering.
Concerns Over Procurement Practices
Additionally, the ED is scrutinizing the procurement practices of liquor from distilleries and breweries. According to sources, Tasmac’s liquor purchases are supposed to be based on a three-month weighted average of sales for specific brands. Exceptions can be made, but they require substantial justification through sales volumes. The ED’s investigation has reportedly been triggered by credible information regarding malpractices in liquor procurement.
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As this story unfolds, we will continue to provide updates on the investigation and its implications for Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.
