A war of words broke out in the Tamil Nadu Assembly after Minister Adhav raised a question on why DMK leader M.K. Stalin had received Rs 900 crore from a lottery company, triggering loud protests from DMK members.
During the debate, Adhav also questioned why DMK leaders were allegedly involved in liquor-related businesses. He said his party’s stated policy was prohibition and a “drug-free Tamil Nadu”, and claimed that its MLAs and ministers were not engaged in any business, particularly in liquor.
As DMK members countered by accusing him of involvement in the lottery trade, Adhav reiterated his allegation and challenged the DMK to answer why the money was taken from the lottery firm. He maintained that he was not running any business or company.
Opposition leader Udhayanidhi responded that the money was given by Adhav’s father-in-law and suggested Adhav seek an explanation from him. Adhav replied that the matter was known only to Stalin and his father, and said the question should be put to Stalin’s father.
Former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam later said donations had been received by many parties across India, including the BJP and Congress, and urged that the issue should not be portrayed like a bribe.
