Fresh Trouble for Vijay? Madras HC Admits Plea Seeking Probe in 2015 Tax Case

Chennai:
In a significant legal development, the Madras High Court has directed its registry to number a petition seeking criminal and money laundering probes against actor-turned-politician Vijay.

The plea relates to an alleged income suppression case dating back to 2015, connected to an Income Tax raid during the production of the film Puli.

⚖️ What the Petition Seeks

The petition, filed by a Chennai-based resident, demands:

• Registration of an FIR on charges like cheating and forgery
• A probe by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) under money laundering laws
• Detailed scrutiny of financial disclosures linked to the 2015 case

💰 Background: 2015 Tax Case

According to the plea:

• Income Tax officials conducted a raid in 2015
• Allegedly found unaccounted cash linked to film earnings
• Vijay reportedly disclosed an additional ₹15 crore income following the raid

⚠️ These claims are part of the petition and have not been adjudicated by the court.

❗ No Probe Yet — Only Hearing Allowed

It is important to note:

• The High Court has not ordered any investigation at this stage
• It has only allowed the petition to be formally listed for hearing
• The court will examine the validity and merits of the plea

🗳️ Political Timing Raises Stakes

The development comes at a crucial moment:

• Vijay’s party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has performed strongly in recent elections
• The party reportedly secured 108 seats
• Tamil Nadu is witnessing a hung assembly scenario, with support from the Indian National Congress

The legal development adds complexity as discussions around government formation continue.

🔍 What Happens Next?

• The court will hear arguments on whether the petition warrants further action
• Authorities may act only if the court directs investigation
• Vijay or his representatives are expected to respond legally

📊 Conclusion:

While the Madras High Court’s move is procedural, the timing of the petition has brought renewed attention to an old tax case. As legal and political developments unfold simultaneously, the coming hearings could play a crucial role in shaping the narrative.