Naam Tamilar Katchi has come under the scrutiny of the NIA investigation. The NIA is advancing the case to the next stage with raids and investigations. While we Tamils believe that the BJP is seeking retribution due to the approaching elections, the BJP contends that the NIA's actions are justified by valid reasons. What's happening?
In May 2022, Sanjay Prakash and Naveen Chakravarthy were apprehended by the Tamil Nadu police in Omalur, Salem, for possession of weapons. Kabilan was also detained following an investigation. Subsequently, the case was transferred to the NIA after it was revealed that the trio were influenced by the LTTE and sought to establish a similar organization.
In response, the NIA conducted raids on the residences of prominent Naam Tamilar Katchi leaders. From the residence of Propaganda Secretary Sattai Duraimurugan, a laptop, seven mobile phones, and eight SIM cards were seized. Summons were also issued to Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) functionary Idumbavanam Karthik.
"Nowhere did the NIA state that the raids were conducted because we were in contact with the LTTE and receiving funds from them. The BJP is merely spreading rumors based on political vendetta," remarked some NTK members.
Addressing the issue, BJP state treasurer SR Shekhar stated, "It's regrettable to characterize the NIA raid as an act of vengeance. An organization like the NIA doesn't act without evidence. Naam Tamilar advocated for Prabhakaran and have engaged youth. It's an attempt to exploit Prabhakaran for monetary gains. Additionally, supporting any organization banned by the Government of India is anti-national. Those involved in such activities must face severe consequences. If proven guilty, the party will face government sanctions."
Union Minister of State L Murugan asserted, "The NIA's raid indicates that Naam Tamilar Katchi is engaged in activities against national interests or unity. The NIA has been closely monitoring their activities and has confirmed their involvement in anti-national endeavors. The NIA acts against those threatening national unity and security. It's their duty to protect the country, and they're executing it effectively. When questioned, wrongdoers cry foul, but that's expected."
In response, NTK state coordinator Fathima Fargana criticized, "This is a retaliatory move by the authoritarian BJP, threatened by the growing influence of Naam Tamilar Katchi. We Tamils are not intimidated by such intimidation tactics. Attempts to smear the party's image will not succeed; instead, we will emerge victorious. The BJP's propaganda has been exposed through this NIA raid."