‘Tasmac scam worth over Rs1,000cr’

Trichy: Puthiya Tamilagam leader K Krishnaswamy has claimed that the ongoing Tasmac liquor scam involves corruption well beyond `1,000 crore. He told reporters here that Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation alone is insufficient to get to the bottom of it and central govt must directly intervene.Krishnaswamy accused the DMK govt of exploiting liquor business for political gain. "In Tamil Nadu, liquor shops are deliberately set up in areas populated by poor, working class people. These communities are suffering due to rampant alcohol consumption," he said, adding that DMK and its leadership are ‘reaping massive financial benefits' from these establishments. He termed DMK's four-year rule deeply flawed and corrupt. "Our goal is to ensure they don't complete the fifth year," he said. Krishnaswamy called on all opposition parties, including BJP, AIADMK, and the NDA alliance to unite and challenge the DMK in the upcoming polls. On PMK leader Ramadoss's claim of winning 50 seats, he said, "I will be happy if he wins."