Corruption investigation into K N Nehru in Tamil Nadu

The Madras High Court dismissed a review petition by former Tamil Nadu Minister K N Nehru, upholding a February 2026 order that directed the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) to register a criminal case against him. The case originated from information shared by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding potential offenses under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

Following a Madras High Court decision on October 26, the DVAC conducted extensive searches on October 29 at approximately 25 locations across Tamil Nadu. These raids targeted Nehru’s residence in Thillai Nagar, Tiruchirappalli, as well as properties in Chennai belonging to his brother, K.N. Ravichandran, and other relatives.

The investigation focuses on alleged irregularities in the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department during Nehru’s tenure. Central to the probe is an alleged ₹634-crore ‘cash-for-jobs scam’ involving the recruitment of 2,538 officials, including engineers. The ED has alleged that candidates were required to pay between ₹25 lakh and ₹35 lakh for government appointments. Officials are also examining irregularities regarding departmental contracts worth approximately ₹1,020 crore.

DMK leaders, including MK Stalin, have criticized the investigation, labeling the actions as ‘Vettri Vendetta Politics’ and accusing the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) of targeting former DMK officials to divert public attention.