Chennai, June 13:
The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) has moved to reopen a high-profile bribery case against former Tamil Nadu Housing Minister Vaithilingam, who is accused of accepting Rs 27.9 crore from a private construction firm in exchange for official favours.
The case was initially registered on February 24, 2024, during the tenure of the DMK government, based on a complaint against the then AIADMK leader. However, it was abruptly closed in February this year, coinciding with Vaithilingam’s resignation as an MLA, his exit from the AIADMK, and subsequent entry into the DMK.
The timing of the case closure had triggered widespread criticism and speculation, with questions raised over whether it was linked to his political defection.
In a fresh development, the DVAC investigating officer on Friday filed a petition before the Principal Sessions Court seeking permission to reinvestigate the case.
With the probe now revived, the agency is set to re-examine the bribery allegations and gather further evidence as part of its renewed investigation.