Tamil Nadu Minister Moves Privilege Motion Against Ex-PWD Chief Velu

Tamil Nadu's Public Works Department (PWD) Minister, Aadhav Arjuna, on Tuesday moved a privilege motion in the state Assembly against former PWD and Highways Minister E.V. Velu. The motion alleges that Velu authorised 80 separate works without legislative approval, creating a financial liability of ₹2,000 crore for future state budgets.

Arjuna contended that these orders were issued in anticipation of the Budget, bypassing the Assembly's constitutional mandate. He requested Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar to refer the matter to the Privileges Committee under Rule 225 of the Assembly Rules for a detailed examination and report. The Minister stated that he had submitted a note and supporting documents to substantiate his claim.

The Minister grounded his argument in Articles 202 to 206 of the Constitution, which govern the legislature's authority over the annual financial statement and the authorisation of all expenditure from the state's Consolidated Fund. He argued that by issuing work orders without prior approval, the rights of the Assembly were violated.

"Obtaining approval after issuing the orders will not make it legal," Arjuna said, suggesting the previous administration acted on the assumption of returning to power. Speaker Prabhakar responded by stating he would study the material presented before deciding on the appropriate course of action.