DVAC searches 19 locations linked to KN Nehru over tender irregularities

The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) on Saturday conducted searches at 19 locations linked to DMK leader and former Tamil Nadu minister KN Nehru in connection with irregularities in tenders issued by the Municipality Administration and Water Supply Department.

The searches are being carried out in Chennai, Tiruchirappalli and Coimbatore based on an FIR registered following communication from the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The ED had conducted searches in 2025 and found irregularities involving tender manipulation and cash-for-job scams worth nearly Rs 1,020 crore. The agency subsequently communicated its findings to the DMK, following which the Tamil Nadu government initiated action against Nehru.

Nehru later approached the Madras High Court. Following directions from the court, an FIR was registered in June based on the ED's communication. Nehru's review petition is currently pending before the court.

Reacting to Saturday's searches, former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin described the action as politically motivated. In a post on X, Stalin said the case was already before the High Court and the Assembly session was underway, alleging that the TVK government was using the search operation against Nehru for political purposes.

Stalin also accused the DVAC of failing to register an FIR over horse-trading involving MLAs who joined the TVK government, and described the search as a “diversionary tactic”. He said Nehru and the DMK would face the proceedings through legal means.

The TVK government has defended the DVAC action, saying strict legal action would be taken against anyone found involved in corruption.

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay had earlier said the government had three files concerning corruption under the previous government and would act at the appropriate time. Since the TVK government came to power, DVAC has conducted searches linked to former ministers E Velu, V Senthilbalaji and now Nehru.