TV Journalist Questioned, Phone Seized in TVK MLA Bribery Investigation

Chennai Police have questioned a senior journalist from a Tamil news channel and seized his mobile phone as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged Rs 35 crore bribery offer made to a ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) legislator.

According to police, the senior news editor of Puthiya Thalaimurai Television appeared before investigators on July 15 and 16 after being summoned. His statement was recorded, and his mobile phone was sent for digital forensic analysis to examine electronic communications linked to the case.

The investigation stems from a complaint filed by TVK MLA N. Elaiyaraja , who represents the Uthangarai Assembly constituency . In his complaint to the Triplicane police, Elaiyaraja alleged that YouTuber Thirunavukkarasu , who runs the opinion poll organisation IPDS , along with several others, attempted to bribe him with Rs 35 crore to vote against the ruling party during a proposed no-confidence motion against the Assembly Speaker .

The MLA further claimed that after refusing the alleged offer, he and his family members were subjected to criminal intimidation . Police said the investigation revealed that Thirunavukkarasu and his associates allegedly devised a plan codenamed "Meghalaya Project" , aimed at influencing nearly 15 TVK legislators through monetary inducements in an attempt to destabilise the elected government.

Investigators alleged that documentary and digital evidence indicated the journalist had exchanged electronic communications with the arrested accused and remained in contact with him during the period of the alleged conspiracy. Police said the questioning was conducted to establish the nature and context of those communications, adding that the journalist may be called again if required.

Meanwhile, the Chennai Press Club criticised the police action, calling the summoning of the journalist an "oppressive action against freedom of expression." While acknowledging that investigators have the authority to summon individuals in connection with a case, the organisation urged that such powers be exercised strictly within legal limits. It also appealed to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to ensure the journalist's mobile phone is returned and that media professionals are not subjected to intimidation during investigations.