Defiant Puducherry Home Minister Strikes Back at Congress Leader Over CBI Probe in Counterfeit Drugs Scandal
Home Minister A. Namassivayam responded pointedly to former Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy’s criticisms of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into a spurious drugs case. Speaking to reporters after inaugurating the physical tests for police constable recruitment at the Police Training School grounds in Gorimedu, Namassivayam labeled Narayanasamy’s comments as “unjustified.” He highlighted that Narayanasamy was the one who initially requested a CBI investigation through a memorandum presented to the Lieutenant Governor.
Notably, the Lieutenant Governor had only ordered the CBI inquiry the prior week. Namassivayam emphasized that standard administrative procedures must be followed before the investigation can fully commence. He remarked, “Mr. Narayanasamy, being a senior leader who has held key portfolios, is well aware of the processes involved in such inquiries,” and asserted that the Congress leader should refrain from insinuating the probe is moving slowly.
At a press briefing on January 1, Narayanasamy had raised doubts about the efficiency of the CBI investigation. Namassivayam queried, “If he anticipates a slow investigation, why did he request one? Is he truly interested in uncovering the truth, or is he merely playing politics?” This question underscores the tensions between the ruling party and the opposition amid ongoing investigations.
Regarding Narayanasamy’s allegations against the ruling party concerning the drug case, Namassivayam pointed out that the production of spurious drugs actually began under the previous Congress administration. He issued a challenge: “If I am in any way tied to this case, I am willing to exit politics. Would Mr. Narayanasamy do the same if his involvement is established?” The Home Minister urged the former Chief Minister to avoid politicizing a matter that the government is actively pursuing.
On a different note, Namassivayam provided updates on the police recruitment process. Since the AINRC-BJP coalition took office in 2021, about 983 positions within the Police Department have been filled. The latest effort aims to fill 207 additional vacancies, with 148 being filled through direct recruitment, while the remainder will come from reallocating Home Guards and compassionate appointments.
Furthermore, the Puducherry government is currently seeking approval from the Centre to establish a second India Reserve Battalion. This additional battalion is expected to bolster the local police force by adding 1,007 personnel. Namassivayam discussed this initiative during a recent meeting with Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, illustrating the government’s commitment to enhancing security measures in the region.
As Puducherry navigates these pressing issues, the political landscape remains charged, with key figures on both sides vying for public support. The ongoing CBI investigation and recruitment initiatives will undoubtedly continue to shape the discourse in this union territory.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/puducherry/puducherry-home-minister-hits-back-at-congress-leader-over-cbi-probe-in-counterfeit-drugs-case/article70463202.ece
Category : Puducherry
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Publish Date: 2026-01-02 16:00:00
