Madras HC asks cops to speed up investigation into graft complaints against ex-ministers
Court was hearing a case concerning allegations of Rs. 98.25 crore tender irregularities during former AIADMK minister S P Velumani’s tenure
Madras High Court
In a sharp rebuke to law enforcement for inaction, the Madras High Court on September 1, 2025, called upon the Tamil Nadu police to swiftly initiate proceedings in a high-profile corruption complaint involving former AIADMK minister S. P. Velumani.
Velumani, who previously held the “local administration” portfolio, is accused of orchestrating financial irregularities amounting to Rs. 98.25 crore in the awarding of government contracts across Chennai and Coimbatore.
The present hearing arose from a contempt petition filed by the NGO Arappor Iyakkam, which alleged that the High Court’s earlier direction to file a chargesheet in the case had not been complied with.
Arappor Iyakkam was the original complainant in the matter against former minister S P Velumani. The case, registered by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) over alleged tender irregularities, had earlier withstood a challenge from private companies, whose plea to quash the proceedings was dismissed by the High Court. At that stage, the court had also directed that a chargesheet be filed.
During proceedings on Monday, DVAC informed the court that the state government, through a Government Order dated August 30, had granted sanction to prosecute Gandhimathi, who served as deputy commissioner of Coimbatore Corporation during the period in question. The agency added that sanction to prosecute two other officials was still awaited.
Taking note of the same, Justice N Anand Venkatesh expressed dismay at the sluggish pace of the investigation, particularly when the accused are former politicians.
He emphasized that such delays are unjustifiable and undermine public trust in accountability mechanisms. The bench highlighted that while prosecution has already been authorized against a former deputy commissioner, approvals for two additional officials are still pending.
Adding urgency to his comments, Justice Venkatesh adjourned the matter to September 19, instructing the authorities to ensure more responsible and prompt handling of sensitive investigations of this nature.
Case Title: Arappor Iyakkam vs Tmt. S.Vimala IPS. and 4 Others
Order Date: September 1, 2025
Bench: Justice N Anand Venkatesh