Minister denies wrongdoing, calls charges “political”
Speaking to reporters in Tiruchirappalli, Minister Ramesh alleged that accusations levelled against him in connection with a land matter in Palani are being made with political motives. He said he is being targeted without basis and that attempts are being made to damage his name and the government’s image.
Ramesh said he came to know only after the case emerged that the land in question was said to be worth around Rs 100 crore. He added that political opponents, unable to find other issues, were using the matter for political gains.
He pointed out that the land document registration took place on July 7, while the government had approached the court regarding the land on June 30. He also said he personally requested the Chief Minister to transfer the inquiry to the CB-CID.
The minister said whoever the real culprits are, they should be punished. He claimed that allegations were being made that his relatives were involved and that he was behind it, and described these as attempts to malign him.
On student protests, Ramesh said Chief Minister Vijay had clearly stated that students’ demands should be respected, including calls to remove NEET and bring education back under the State List. He added that if anyone tried to divert the protests against the Chief Minister, the government would handle it appropriately.
