Tamil Nadu Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin questioned Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s delay in examining files on alleged corruption in the previous DMK government. Mr. Vijay had stated in the Assembly on August 19 that he possessed proof of corruption and would reveal it when necessary. Mr. Stalin asked why there was a delay in examining the files if evidence existed, urging the government to take immediate legal action if they had proof.
Minister for Public Works Aadhav Arjuna responded, stating that the DMK was not afraid of legal action. He mentioned that White Papers were being prepared on the functioning of several departments and that action would be taken if any irregularities were found. Mr. Arjuna also pointed out that the DMK had faced the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) in the past, implying that they were not intimidated by the current government’s actions.
Mr. Stalin raised concerns about the live telecast of Assembly proceedings, stating that expunged remarks were being edited into social media reels and circulated online. He alleged that Ministers provided evasive replies to questions raised by the Opposition. In response, Mr. Arjuna said that the live telecast of Assembly proceedings was a step towards transparency, introduced by the current government. He questioned why the DMK had not implemented live telecasts during their tenure, despite promising to do so in their 2021 election manifesto.
Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar intervened, stating that broadcasting expunged remarks was a breach of privilege. He warned that such actions would be referred to the Privileges Committee, and appropriate action would be taken. Mr. Prabhakar urged all members to maintain the dignity of the House and speak only on matters supported by evidence.
