In a significant development, Congress Member of Parliament from Tamil Nadu’s Karur, Jothimani, has accused Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state chief K Annamalai of collecting approximately Rs 1.75 crores under the guise of a ‘padayatra.’ Jothimani, on Saturday, claimed to possess video evidence supporting her allegations against Annamalai.
“Annamalai collects crores of money in the name of ‘padayatra.’ Every day the ‘padayatra’ takes place for just 5 kms, and for that, he collects money. Even a former AIADMK Minister mentioned it. I publicly accuse TN BJP President Annamalai of being involved in the MSME fraud, and he has looted money,” asserted Jothimani.
The Congress MP went on to state that Annamalai is utilizing the ‘padayatra’ primarily for fundraising and allegedly resorting to intimidation to extract money from people. Drawing a contrast with Congress, Jothimani emphasized that their ‘padayatra’ did not involve any financial contributions from the public. She pledged to release video evidence supporting her claims soon.
The ‘En Mann, En Makkal’ (My Land, My People) padayatra, led by Annamalai, has been ongoing for six months. Launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Rameswaram on July 28, this ambitious journey aims to connect with the people of Tamil Nadu.