Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government’s anti-corruption campaign gathered pace on Saturday as the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) suspended seven municipal officials and registered a First Information Report (FIR) against them over alleged corruption.
The action followed surprise inspections carried out in Zones 6 and 9 of the GCC last week. During the inspections, officials reportedly discovered unaccounted cash and unexplained digital transactions, prompting an investigation by the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC).
According to a senior GCC official, one assistant executive engineer was unable to explain Google Pay transactions amounting to ₹2.39 lakh during the inspection.
Surprise inspections uncover suspected irregularities
The inspections covered parts of North and Central Chennai. Zone 6 includes Kolathur, Ayanavaram and Perambur, while Zone 9 comprises major commercial and residential localities such as Thousand Lights, Mylapore and Nungambakkam.
Based on the DVAC’s report submitted on Friday, the seven officials were suspended and booked under anti-corruption laws.
The latest action comes just days after six other GCC officials were suspended over allegations of bribery, fake billing and operating a cash-for-jobs racket.
Government signals zero tolerance for corruption
Several of the suspended officials have served in the civic body for nearly two decades. Authorities are now considering dismissing them from service if they are found guilty after the departmental inquiry, rather than limiting the punishment to suspension.
GCC Commissioner Sameeran said the crackdown reflects Chief Minister Vijay’s policy of maintaining zero tolerance towards corruption in government departments.
Anti-corruption drive expands across government
The campaign has also extended beyond the civic administration. Recently, the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) expelled one of its panchayat leaders after a video allegedly showed him accepting a bribe. He was removed from the party even before an FIR was registered.
Earlier this week, the TVK-led government launched a dedicated WhatsApp helpline managed by the DVAC, enabling citizens to report bribery in government offices by submitting complaints and supporting evidence.
The anti-corruption initiative was a key promise during TVK’s election campaign, with Chief Minister Vijay pledging transparent governance and repeatedly accusing previous administrations of widespread corruption