High‑Profile Corruption Probe Expands as Singapore‑Based Perumal Named in Lookout Circular

A high‑visibility anti‑corruption inquiry in Tamil Nadu has widened its scope after a lookout circular was issued against Lakshman Perumal, a businessman residing in Singapore.

The circular, released on July 9, mandates that immigration authorities immediately flag Perumal’s travel documents, enabling police to detain him should he attempt to set foot in Indian territory.

Sources within the investigation say Perumal is accused of offering a sum of ₹35 crore to TVK MLA N. Ilayaraja in exchange for a vote against the ruling party’s agenda in the state assembly. The alleged bribe was purportedly coupled with threats when the legislator rejected the proposition.

Prosecutors also allege that Perumal sought to erase critical digital trails, including instructing a Singapore hotel to delete CCTV footage and erasing WhatsApp messages that documented his interactions with the MLA. Forensic specialists are now piecing together surviving electronic evidence.

The alleged plot is believed to have been orchestrated by former minister V. Senthil Balaji and his brother R.V. Ashok Kumar, who are said to have directed their confidant Thirunavukkarasu to approach Ilayaraja.

On Wednesday, the Madras High Court granted interim bail to Balaji and Ashok Kumar, simultaneously ordering them to cooperate with investigators and appear before the enquiry panel when summoned.

The case has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act and pertinent sections of the Indian Penal Code, and police have stepped up efforts to locate Perumal and other alleged conspirators.