CHENNAI — The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly witnessed high-voltage political drama on Monday as Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay launched a scathing attack on the main opposition Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), accusing the previous regime of indulging in "scientific corruption" and widespread financial malpractices.

Delivering a sharp rebuttal in the House, Chief Minister Vijay cited official findings from Enforcement Directorate (ED) documents alongside historic conclusions from the Sarkaria Commission to corner the opposition benches. He alleged that the previous DMK administration operated through an organised network to extract illicit party funds and engage in widespread financial manipulation.

"Malpractice, fraud, manipulation, abuse of power, and an organised crime syndicate—these are not just political assertions; these are the precise words used by central agencies while investigating graft during the DMK regime," CM Vijay told the Assembly.

Focusing specifically on state liquor entity Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC), the Chief Minister alleged that illegal collections were routinely extorted from bar owners by an illicit cartel during the DMK's tenure. He condemned what he termed a "dishonest intent" to syphon public wealth under the guise of governance, asserting that his administration remains firm on prosecuting every corruption instance without exception.

The Chief Minister’s targeted speech followed days of intense friction inside the Assembly floor. Earlier in the session, opposition members led by Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin had disrupted proceedings over state law and order concerns, demanding direct replies. Addressing those challenges, CM Vijay reiterated that policing under his government adheres to strict accountability, declaring that the law applies equally to all regardless of political affiliations.

Following the Chief Minister's direct barrage and refusal to back down on the corruption charges, opposition legislators voiced strong protests in the House. Treasury benches maintained that the current administration is committed to complete transparency, contrasting its policies against the systemic corruption alleged in past regimes.