Chennai, July 1: In a significant development, Chennai police arrested three individuals on Wednesday in connection with an alleged conspiracy to entice legislators from the ruling ‘Tamilaga Vetrikazhagam’ (TVK) party to defect. Among those arrested are a YouTuber and two DMK officials from Karur. This incident has escalated the ongoing investigation.
The case was initiated based on a complaint by TVK legislator N. Laiyaraja, who represents the Uthangarai assembly constituency in Krishnagiri district.
In his complaint, Laiyaraja alleged that he was repeatedly approached with attempts to persuade him to leave the ruling party. He also claimed that YouTuber I.P.D.S. Thirunavukkarasu had contacted him multiple times, engaging in discussions and allegedly threatening him to gain his support.
Following this complaint, the Triplicane police in Chennai registered a case and arrested Thirunavukkarasu. During interrogation, he reportedly revealed the involvement of two individuals from Karur who participated in discussions with the legislator.
Based on this information, a team from Chennai police traveled to Karur and apprehended Karthik and Ramesh, both identified as local DMK officials who run a restaurant named ‘Shakti Mess.’
Investigators are examining their alleged roles in the conspiracy and whether they acted independently or under direction from others.
According to police, the two arrested individuals are believed to be close associates of former Tamil Nadu minister V. Senthil Balaji, with connections to his business interests in Karur. Karthik also holds the position of Deputy Secretary in the DMK’s sports wing.
Following the arrests, police conducted searches at the homes of the accused and other related locations. Officials confirmed that cash was recovered during the searches, although the exact amount has not been officially disclosed.
Investigators are trying to determine whether this money is linked to the alleged attempts to influence elected representatives.
This arrest comes just a day after Minister Nirmal Kumar alleged that attempts were being made to destabilize the government by enticing TVK legislators. Investigators are looking into claims that three TVK legislators were targeted, with each reportedly offered 15 crores to switch allegiance.
The incident has stirred political turmoil, especially following the arrest of two DMK officials closely associated with former minister Senthil Balaji. Police stated that further investigations are ongoing to identify others involved in this alleged conspiracy.
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