Zero tolerance or damage control? TVK sacks worker after bribery allegations
Actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has expelled a local party functionary after a video purportedly showing him accepting a bribe went viral on social media, prompting immediate disciplinary action amid mounting political controversy.
The expelled leader, N. Veera alias Veerasamy, served as the Mambakkam Panchayat President and Chengalpattu East District Joint Secretary of the party. The Chengalpattu district unit removed him from the party’s primary membership shortly after the video surfaced online.
According to the allegations, a contractor claimed Veerasamy demanded money to facilitate the release of payment for a road construction project worth nearly ₹9.8 lakh. The contractor alleged that after negotiations over the amount, multiple digital payments were made before the remaining sum was allegedly handed over in cash—an exchange that was captured on video.
The controversy gained further attention as it coincided with the Tamil Nadu government’s latest anti-corruption drive. On the same day, the state directed all government offices, local bodies and public sector undertakings to prominently display awareness boards declaring that both giving and accepting bribes are punishable offences, along with the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) helpline number.
Veerasamy, however, has denied the bribery allegations. Speaking to NDTV, he claimed the money was repayment of a personal loan and payments related to JCB rental and other expenses. He also alleged that the contractor was associated with the DMK and accused political rivals of attempting to tarnish both his image and the TVK government. He said he would initiate legal action against those behind the allegations.
The episode has also revived scrutiny of Veerasamy’s past. Reports indicate that he previously faced allegations of administrative irregularities, with his cheque-signing powers withdrawn in 2023 and a no-confidence motion leading to his removal as panchayat president in 2025. He later returned to office after securing relief through the courts.
While investigations into the allegations are expected to continue, TVK’s swift action appears aimed at distancing the party from the controversy as it seeks to project a firm stance against corruption.
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