Look out notice issued against Singapore based suspect in Rs 35 crore attempt to bribe TVK MLA case

Chennai, July 9 (IANS) The Tamil Nadu Police have issued a look out circular (LOC) against Singapore-based businessman Lakshmana Perumal in connection with the alleged attempt to bribe a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) MLA to vote against the state government during a proposed Assembly move, as investigators widen their probe into the high-profile case.

According to police, Lakshmana Perumal, who is believed to be staying in Singapore, is suspected to have played a significant role in the alleged conspiracy and is wanted for questioning.

The LOC has been issued to ensure that immigration authorities alert the investigating agency if he attempts to enter or leave India. Investigators alleged that Lakshmana Perumal tried to destroy crucial digital evidence linked to the case.

Police claimed that while in Singapore, he arranged for CCTV footage from a hotel to be deleted and also erased WhatsApp conversations allegedly connected to the negotiations with the legislator.

Officials said forensic experts are examining the available digital evidence, including electronic records and communication details, to establish the sequence of events.

Police believe Lakshmana Perumal had links with others allegedly involved in the conspiracy to persuade a TVK MLA to vote against the government.

Authorities said steps are underway to secure his presence in India through the appropriate legal process, while the investigation continues.

The case originated from a complaint filed by TVK Uthangarai MLA N. Elaiyaraja with the Chennai Police Commissioner on June 29. In his complaint, the legislator alleged that he had been offered Rs 35 crore to vote against the Speaker during a proposed Assembly resolution and was threatened after rejecting the offer.

Based on the complaint, the Triplicane police registered a case under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

During the investigation, police alleged that the prime accused, Thirunavukkarasu, had contacted Elaiyaraja at the instance of former Tamil Nadu Minister V. Senthil Balaji and his brother R.V. Ashok Kumar.

Meanwhile, the Madras High Court on Wednesday granted anticipatory bail to Senthil Balaji and Ashok Kumar, directing them to cooperate with the investigation and appear before the investigating officer as required.

Police, however, have made it clear that the probe is continuing and that efforts are being intensified to trace other accused, including Lakshmana Perumal, whose alleged role remains under investigation.

–IANS

aal/dpb