BackPOLITICS
Congress says TN party chief confined by IT search ahead of Rahul Gandhi rally
The Congress alleged that Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president K Selvaperunthagai was unlawfully confined by the Income Tax department during a raid at his Sriperumbudur residence, under the pretext of a search, ahead of Rahul Gandhi’s Tamil Nadu campaign. The party framed the event as a misuse of central agencies to intimidate opposition before polling, linked to cash-for-voter distribution claims. The raid is reported as ongoing at the time of the report.
Why It Matters
The incident raises concerns about the use of investigative agencies in the conduct of political campaigns and the potential impact on democratic participation during elections.
Timeline
3 Events
Rahul Gandhi to campaign in southern Tamil Nadu districts; end of canvassing slated for April 21
April 20, 2026
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi will campaign in Kanniyakumari, Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli on Monday, as part of the Election campaign in Tamil Nadu; the campaign is scheduled to conclude at 5 pm on April 21, marking the end of public canvassing.
Congress alleges unlawful confinement by IT department ahead of Rahul Gandhi campaign
April 20, 2026
Congress asserted on social media that Selvaperunthagai was unlawfully confined in Sriperumbudur by the Income Tax Department under the pretext of a 'search', accusing central agencies of intimidation and obstruction of opposition ahead of polling.
IT raid at Selvaperunthagai's Sriperumbudur residence amid cash-for-voter distribution allegations
April 20, 2026
The Income Tax department conducted a raid at Tamil Nadu Congress president K Selvaperunthagai's residence in Sriperumbudur following complaints that cash intended for distribution to voters had been stashed there. The operation was described as a 'search' and not a routine action, according to party statements.