Tamil Nadu Police Investigates R Vaithilingam in Rs 27.90 Crore Bribery Case Linked to AIADMK Regime

The Tamil Nadu police have initiated a bribery case involving Rs 27.90 crore against R Vaithilingam, a former minister from the AIADMK government, and a well-known property development firm. The alleged bribe was reportedly paid to secure planning permission for a project in 2016, according to an official statement on Tuesday. Vaithilingam, who previously served as the housing and urban development minister, is the primary accused in the FIR filed by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC).

In addition to Vaithilingam, ten others are implicated in the case, including Shriram Properties and Infrastructure Pvt Ltd (SPIPL) and one of its directors. The FIR also names V Prabhu, Vaithilingam's son and director of Muthammal Estates Pvt Ltd, which is described as a shell company. The case involves charges under IPC section 120 B for conspiracy and provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Bribery Allegations Against Former Minister

Shriram Properties had submitted an application on December 2, 2013, seeking planning permission from the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority. The request was to construct 1,453 additional buildings on a 57.94-acre site at GST Road in Perungalathur, Chennai. While the application was pending with Vaithilingam, who was then the Minister for Housing and Urban Development, SPIPL allegedly paid Rs 27.90 crore as a bribe to secure approval.

The FIR details that the payment was made through indirect channels to avoid direct detection. Documents indicate that Vaithilingam received Rs 27.90 crore from Shriram Properties through Shriram Group Companies to Muthammal Estates, managed by his family members, to approve the planning permit in 2016.

Ongoing Investigations and Previous Cases

The Tamil Nadu police have also registered a disproportionate assets case worth Rs 32.47 crore against Vaithilingam. He was expelled from the AIADMK along with former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam in 2022. Other ministers from the previous AIADMK regime, such as SP Velumani and C Vijayabaskar, are also facing DVAC cases.

The AIADMK governed Tamil Nadu from 2011 until 2021. In May 2021, the DMK came to power with MK Stalin assuming the role of chief minister. Despite attempts to contact them for comments, neither Vaithilingam nor representatives from Shriram Properties responded to calls or text messages regarding these allegations.

This case highlights ongoing efforts by authorities to address corruption within previous administrations in Tamil Nadu. The investigation continues as officials seek further evidence and testimonies related to these allegations.