Madras HC seeks response on transfer of TASMAC corruption cases to CBI
The petitioner alleged that multiple FIRs lodged by the DVAC between 2017 and 2024 were hastily closed without a proper investigation to avoid ED action
The Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to file its response within a week to a petition seeking to transfer corruption cases related to the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (Tasmac) from the state’s Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
'Petitioner has no locus standi'
The order comes despite the state’s objection that the petitioner, K Venkatachalapathy, a 48-year-old advocate from Tirunelveli, lacks the legal standing (locus standi) to file the case. The state government argued that the petitioner has no direct connection to the issue and urged the court to dismiss the petition. However, the court stated that it would decide on the maintainability of the petition later and instructed the state to submit a detailed response by next week.
Also read: TN: ED summons Tasmac top brass in ‘Rs 1,000-cr liquor scam’ probe
The court also directed other respondents, including the Union of India, the Director General of Police, the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), and Tasmac, to file their replies.
Alleged scam of Rs 1,000 crore
The petition alleges a Rs 1,000 crore scam at Tasmac, claiming that its shops charged customers above the fixed retail price for liquor. It further alleges that officials, including district and regional managers, took bribes to allow illegal sales.
It points to multiple FIRs lodged by the DVAC between 2017 and 2024, some of which were allegedly closed without proper investigation. The petitioner accuses the state of obstructing probes, including ED searches conducted at Tasmac's Chennai headquarters from March 6 to 8, 2025, and seeks a CBI investigation for impartiality.
Also read: Why exempt state premises from ED searches: Madras HC to TN govt in Tasmac case
The court on April 23, had dismissed similar attempts by the state and Tasmac to block the ED’s investigation, emphasizing the need for action against corruption.
The petitioner argues that a fair investigation, as guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution, is essential to maintain public trust in the justice system.
The case will come up for hearing again after the state and other respondents submit their replies next week.