Tamil Nadu Minister Alleges DMK Offered ₹35 Crore Bribe to Topple TVK Government

A major political crisis has erupted in Tamil Nadu following explosive claims by state minister P. Nirmal Kumar, who alleges that the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) attempted to destabilize the newly formed government. The minister claims that DMK members offered a staggering ₹35 crore bribe to a legislator from the Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) to switch loyalties and weaken the ruling party's mandate. These accusations target former Chief Minister MK Stalin, with the ruling administration suggesting the opposition is unable to accept the results of the 2026 assembly elections.

The charges surface during a period of significant transition in the state. The TVK, led by actor-politician Vijay, secured a historic victory in the recent assembly elections, ending the long-standing dominance of older regional parties. Following this electoral shift, there have been reports of high-profile defections from the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) to the TVK, with senior leaders like C. Vijayabaskar and M. R. Vijayabhaskar cited in recent political discourse. The climate of distrust remains acute, with institutional relations receiving public attention, such as a congratulatory meeting between The Hindu Group Chairman N. Murali and CM Vijay.

The controversy threatens to stall administrative progress and delay critical infrastructure project approvals as the state government focuses on legislative survival. While the ruling party calls for transparency, the opposition has responded by demanding an independent probe into the corruption claims. Observers warn that this standoff marks a sharp escalation in the rivalry between established Dravidian parties and new political entrants. The outcome of potential police or legislative investigations will likely dictate the state's political trajectory and public sentiment as both sides prepare for upcoming legislative sessions.