Tamil Nadu: ED Questions Minister K Ponmudy For Second Time After Raids

Senior Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader and Higher Education minister K Ponmudy and his son P Gautham Sigamani are being questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) at its Chennai office for the second time after raids were conducted at his residence and premises linked to him.

During the raids, the ED reportedly seized Rs 70 lakh in Indian currency and foreign currency worth Rs 10 lakh.

Ponmudy returned home early this morning around 3.30 AM after the completion of the first round of questioning.

DMK spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai had said that questioning of a 72-year-old at midnight is a human rights violation. He also said that the ED's action is a fallout of Ponmudy speaking out against Governor RN Ravi.

While the ED has not stated a reason for the raids, Ponmudy is known to be facing allegations of land-grab and misusing his power to grant permits for quarrying of red sand.

Earlier today (18 July), Chief Minister MK Stalin spoke to him over the phone from Bangalore and assured him of full support from the party.

Also Read: Tamil Nadu: Why Is Senior DMK Minister K Ponmudy Being Raided By ED Officials?