Edappadi K Palaniswami on Sunday alleged that crimes involving functionaries of the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) have increased since the party assumed office, and called for impartial investigations into the cases.
In a statement, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) general secretary claimed that incidents involving ruling party members in serious criminal offences had risen in recent months.
Referring to media reports from Salem, he alleged that a TVK functionary, identified as Manikandan, had been arrested for allegedly sexually harassing multiple women, recording videos of them, and using the footage to threaten them. He termed reports suggesting that over 50 women were affected as “deeply disturbing.”
Palaniswami also cited reports that another TVK functionary, Vembuli, from Alandur, is wanted in connection with a sexual assault case and has not yet been arrested.
Questioning assurances made by the Chief Minister during the swearing-in ceremony, Palaniswami asked how public safety—especially for women—could be ensured if such incidents involved members of the ruling party. He further alleged that some cadres appeared to act without fear of the law despite their party leader holding the Home portfolio.
Urging the government to act, he demanded that all cases be investigated fairly, without political interference or attempts to shield the accused. He also called for stringent legal action and justice for the victims.