Chennai: A sharp exchange unfolded in the Tamil Nadu Assembly after Opposition leader Udhayanidhi challenged Chief Minister Vijay to open the “three files” he had referred to and proceed with action if they contain evidence.
Udhayanidhi said the Chief Minister had repeatedly mentioned that three files were on his table and warned others not to force him to open them, while making allegations against the previous administration. He questioned why the Chief Minister was “afraid” and accused him of dragging the issue for the past three months.
Minister Aadhav Arjuna responded that the government had no fear and said a white paper related to the Highways and Public Works Department had been prepared and kept with supporting material at the Chief Minister’s Office. He added that the Chief Minister had indicated legal action would follow, and claimed Udhayanidhi was not present in the House when this was stated earlier.
The Speaker intervened, noting that the Chief Minister reviews files as part of his work and is capable of consulting ministers and taking decisions independently. The Speaker said the Chief Minister’s reference to files should be understood as being under review and should not be treated as a “challenge.”
Udhayanidhi reiterated his demand, saying the files should be opened and, if there is genuine evidence, action should be taken against anyone. He said the opposition would not be intimidated by what he described as threats or attempts to stall the matter.
