Published Oct 29, 2026 | 11:17 AM ⚊ Updated Oct 29, 2026 | 11:17 AM
Ex-DMK minister KN Nehru. (Umar Sharieef)
Synopsis: The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) searched 25 locations across Tamil Nadu, including properties associated with former Minister KN Nehru, in an alleged ₹634-crore bribery case involving the recruitment of 2,538 personnel in the Municipal Administration Department during the previous DMK government. Separately, the DVAC is investigating an alleged ₹1,020-crore tender irregularity case involving the department.
The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) searched 25 locations across Tamil Nadu, including properties associated with former Municipal Administration Minister KN Nehru, in an alleged ₹634-crore bribery case in the Municipal Administration Department during the previous DMK government.
The searches began around 7.30 am at the residence of Nehru in Thillai Nagar, Tiruchirappalli, and at properties and offices associated with him in Chennai. Searches were also conducted at the residence and office of his brother, Ravichandran, who owns TVH Builders (True Value Homes), in Raja Annamalaipuram.
The case concerns allegations that ₹634 crore was collected as bribes in connection with the appointment of 2,538 personnel, including assistant engineers and junior engineers, in the department.
The investigation followed a communication from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police seeking registration of a case over the alleged irregularities. AIADMK MP Inbathurai subsequently approached the Madras High Court seeking a direction to the DVAC to register a case.
In February, the High Court directed the DVAC to register a case on the basis of the ED’s communication. A division bench of the court later dismissed a challenge filed on behalf of Nehru against the order. He has since appealed to the Supreme Court.
Separately, the DVAC is investigating an alleged ₹1,020-crore tender irregularity case involving the Municipal Administration Department.
Nehru had also faced a disproportionate assets case relating to his tenure as a minister between 2006 and 2011. The case was registered during the subsequent AIADMK government, and he was later discharged by a court.
(Edited by Dese Gowda)
