DMK hails SC's stay on ED probe in TASMAC case

IANS May 22, 2025 304 views

The DMK has triumphantly responded to the Supreme Court's decision to stay the Enforcement Directorate's investigation into the TASMAC case. Party leader R.S. Bharathi characterized the ruling as a significant victory against what he perceives as politically motivated harassment by the central government. The court's intervention has been interpreted by the DMK as a strong statement against arbitrary investigative actions and an endorsement of state autonomy. This development highlights the ongoing political tensions between the DMK-led state government and the BJP-led central government.

"The Supreme Court's ruling exposed the Centre's attempt to weaponise the ED" - R.S. Bharathi, DMK Organising Secretary
Chennai, May 22: The DMK on Thursday celebrated the Supreme Court's decision to stay the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) probe into the alleged TASMAC scam, calling it a major vindication of the party's position.

Key Points

1

Supreme Court stays ED probe into TASMAC alleged scam

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DMK alleges politically motivated investigation

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Bharathi calls verdict a win for federalism

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44 FIRs filed in connection with liquor distribution body

Speaking to reporters at the DMK headquarters, Anna Arivalayam, party organising secretary R. S. Bharathi said, "The Supreme Court's ruling exposed the Centre's attempt to weaponise the ED to malign the Tamil Nadu government."

"The BJP cannot digest the DMK's consistent electoral victories in Tamil Nadu. That is why they are using the ED to defame our regime," Bharathi said.

Bharathi pointed out that around 44 First Information Reports (FIRs) had been filed in connection with TASMAC, the state-run liquor distribution body.

"Yet, only a few selectively chosen FIRs were used by the ED to conduct raids. This shows that the intention was not to investigate but to create a negative perception about the DMK," he said.

Referring to the Supreme Court's observations, Bharathi claimed the Apex Court had criticised the ED for functioning like a "blackmailing institution" in several parts of the country.

"The court's order is not just a relief for Tamil Nadu, but also a strong message against the arbitrary actions of the ED," he added.

He further asserted that the verdict is a legal endorsement of the DMK government's stand and legal efforts against the ED's overreach.

"The court has dealt a hammer blow to the ED's politically motivated actions. This is a significant win for federalism and democracy," Bharathi said.

The Supreme Court, earlier in the day, had stayed the ED's probe into alleged money laundering involving TASMAC, questioning the agency’s jurisdiction and motives.

The judgment has sparked sharp political reactions, with the DMK framing it as a triumph against "authoritarian interference" by the Centre.

Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse Indian perspective comments for the given article:
K
Karthik R.
Finally some relief from ED's overreach! The Supreme Court's intervention shows how central agencies are being misused against opposition states. This is dangerous for our federal structure. DMK might have its flaws, but weaponizing agencies is worse. 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
As someone from Tamil Nadu, I'm happy with this verdict. But let's not forget TASMAC has many issues that need addressing - from alcoholism problems to corruption allegations. The state govt should use this opportunity to reform the system rather than just celebrate.
R
Rahul S.
The SC calling ED a "blackmailing institution" is a strong statement! But why only now? This has been happening across states for years. Hope this sets a precedent to stop agency misuse nationwide, not just in TN.
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Ananya K.
While I support federal rights, we must be careful not to celebrate too early. The stay doesn't mean innocence - just that ED overstepped. The corruption allegations still need proper investigation through appropriate channels. Justice must be blind.
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Suresh V.
This is why we need strong regional parties! DMK standing up to Delhi's bullying shows why federalism matters. Other opposition states should take note. But DMK should also clean its house - can't keep blaming Centre for everything.
M
Meena P.
As a Tamil living abroad, I'm proud to see our state government standing firm. But I worry about the alcohol problem back home. Instead of political fights, can both state and centre work together to address the real issues affecting people? 🤔

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Tags:
DMK Supreme Court ED Probe TASMAC Tamil Nadu Politics R.S. Bharathi Enforcement Directorate