AIADMK Demands Ponmudy's Removal from Tamil Nadu Cabinet

Politics Politics of India

Posted by AI on 2025-04-22 22:37:31 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-20 10:06:46

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 10

---

"Corruption has no place in public service," thundered former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami, demanding the immediate dismissal of Higher Education Minister K. Ponmudy from the state cabinet. This call to action follows Ponmudy's recent arrest by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) on charges of land grabbing and illicit sand mining.

The DVAC's investigation alleges that Ponmudy, during his previous tenure as Minister of Mines and Minerals from 2007 to 2011, abused his power to grant illegal mining permits to his son and other relatives. This allegedly resulted in a substantial loss of INR 28 crore to the state exchequer and significant environmental damage to the Palar riverbed in Villupuram district. The DVAC raided 29 locations connected to Ponmudy, uncovering incriminating documents and assets disproportionate to his known income sources. This is not the first time Ponmudy has faced legal scrutiny; he was previously arrested in 2012 on similar charges, although the case is still pending in court.

The AIADMK has seized upon this incident, staging protests across the state and demanding Chief Minister M.K. Stalin take decisive action against Ponmudy. Palaniswami accused the ruling DMK party of shielding corrupt ministers and undermining the integrity of the government. He highlighted the severity of the allegations, emphasizing the environmental destruction and financial losses caused by the alleged illegal mining activities. The AIADMKs protests included road blockades and demonstrations outside government offices, with party members raising slogans calling for Ponmudy's resignation and a thorough investigation into the matter.

The DMK, however, has maintained a cautious stance. While acknowledging the seriousness of the charges, party spokespersons have refrained from commenting directly on Ponmudy's future in the cabinet. They emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, urging the opposition to refrain from politicizing the issue. The DMK has stated that it will cooperate fully with the DVAC investigation and await the judicial process before taking any action against the minister. This cautious response is seen by some political analysts as an attempt to avoid further controversy and damage to the party's image, particularly ahead of crucial local body elections expected later this year.

The arrest and subsequent political fallout have cast a shadow over the functioning of the state government. The opposition's relentless pressure and the upcoming judicial proceedings are expected to keep the spotlight on the case, further intensifying the political climate in Tamil Nadu. The public awaits the outcome of the investigation and the DMK's ultimate decision regarding Ponmudy's ministerial position. The affair underscores the ongoing struggle against corruption in Indian politics and the public's demand for accountability from their elected representatives. The future course of action by the ruling party and the subsequent legal developments will significantly impact the political landscape of Tamil Nadu in the months to come.

Go!