Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M.K. Stalin, criticized the Income Tax raid at the home of Tamil Nadu Congress Committee President K. Selvaperunthagai, denouncing it as an attempt to disrupt the Opposition’s election campaign. CM Stalin accused the BJP-led Central government of using intimidation tactics just before the Assembly polls. He expressed strong disapproval of what he perceived as an effort to obstruct the Opposition parties.
The Income Tax officials conducted searches at Selvaperunthagai’s residence in Kilpauk, Chennai, which led to sharp political reactions in the State. The Congress leader, contesting from Sriperumbudur Assembly constituency, alleged that he was unlawfully detained during the house search. Selvaperunthagai raised concerns about the conduct of the raid, highlighting the involvement of officers who did not speak Tamil.
The incident has sparked controversy in Tamil Nadu, with Opposition leaders accusing the Centre of misusing central agencies to target political rivals during the crucial final phase of campaigning. The timing of the raid, coinciding with Rahul Gandhi’s presence in the state for election campaigning, has further fueled the political tension. The situation is expected to escalate the already intense electoral atmosphere in the State as campaigning approaches its conclusion.
