Chennai, August 17: K. Annamalai, founder of ‘We the Leaders’ and former president of the Tamil Nadu BJP, accused several ministers from the Tamil Nadu government, led by the Tamilaga Vetria Kazhagam (TVK), of demanding commissions ranging from 2 to 4 percent on government tenders.
Annamalai did not name any specific ministers nor did he release the audio recording that he claims supports his allegations.
While addressing a meeting with his supporters in Chennai, Annamalai stated that despite the state government’s claims of eradicating corruption, it is re-emerging in Tamil Nadu. He urged Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to closely monitor his ministers and officials, asserting that he is personally against corruption.
According to Annamalai, while major government tenders are not being subjected to commission demands, some ministers have recently begun requesting cuts on other contracts. He claimed to possess an audio clip where such demands were allegedly made.
The former BJP leader alleged that those demanding payments justify their actions by stating they incurred expenses during the recent assembly elections.
Annamalai appealed to Chief Minister Vijay to take immediate action in this matter and rein in the ministers and officials to prevent this practice from taking root. He emphasized that he is raising this issue early and does not wish to wait for it to escalate into a significant political controversy a year later.
However, he also reiterated the need to give the TVK-led government ample time to prove its administrative capabilities.
Annamalai described the TVK’s electoral victory in Tamil Nadu as a political revolution, noting that 101 out of the party’s 108 legislators are first-time members.
He acknowledged that the state government has performed well in certain areas while also making mistakes in others. Annamalai mentioned that his party is monitoring the government’s operations and is submitting reports on issues that require attention.
He welcomed the government’s actions in response to criticisms, including measures taken against TASMAC liquor shops located within 500 meters of educational institutions and places of worship.
Annamalai stated, “If the TVK government does not perform well, we will be the first to raise allegations against them.” However, he also noted that the constructive efforts made by the state government should be recognized.
Referring to the state’s budget for 2026, which aims to save ₹15,000 crores, Annamalai urged Chief Minister Vijay to allocate ₹5,000 crores each for three priority areas: the revival and conservation of rural water bodies, improvement of infrastructure in government schools, and overall development of rural areas.
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