Tamil Nadu Assembly: Udhayanidhi Stalin, Minister Aadhav Arjuna clash over corruption files, live telecast

Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin on Thursday (August 21, 2026) questioned the delay by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay in examining files related to alleged corruption in the previous DMK government. Mr. Vijay had claimed in the Assembly on August 19 that he possessed proof of corruption on his table and would reveal it when necessary.

Speaking in the Assembly, Mr. Udhayanidhi said, “Why is there a hesitation to open the files? Take legal action immediately, if the government has evidence. The DMK is not afraid.”

Responding to the remarks, Minister for Public Works Aadhav Arjuna noted that DMK leaders had often spoken about facing the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) during the Emergency. “The TVK came to power by defeating those who had faced MISA. So, we are not afraid of anyone,” he said. He added that White Papers were being prepared on the functioning of several departments, and legal action would be taken if irregularities were found.

The exchange also touched upon the live telecast of Assembly proceedings. Mr. Udhayanidhi pointed out that the Speaker had been promptly expunging remarks made without evidence, but visuals of those expunged remarks were being taken from the live feed, edited into reels, and circulated on YouTube and social media platforms.

Mr. Arjuna said the live telecast had started only after the TVK government came to power, ensuring transparency and enabling people to know what happened in the Assembly. He questioned why the proceedings were not telecast live after the DMK formed the government in 2021, despite a promise in its election manifesto.

Mr. Udhayanidhi responded that the live telecast of Question Hour had begun during the DMK regime.

Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar said broadcasting remarks after they had been expunged from the Assembly records constitutes a breach of privilege. Such matters would be referred to the Privileges Committee, and appropriate action would be taken. He urged all members to respect the dignity of the House and speak only on matters supported by evidence.

The exchange reflects the continuing political rivalry between the ruling TVK and the DMK-led Opposition, with both sides using Assembly proceedings to press their points. The House also witnessed arguments over transparency and the use of official records.