A Tangedco lineman was arrested by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti‑Corruption after allegedly taking a ₹5,000 bribe from a farmer. The incident follows a recent arrest of a forest officer, highlighting a crackdown on regional corruption. Investigations are ongoing.

  • Lineman Vijay seized ₹5,000 from farmer S. Murugesan
  • Bribe linked to an illegal power‑connection modification
  • DVAC had already arrested a forest officer two weeks earlier

The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti‑Corruption (DVAC) police on Thursday detained 39‑year‑old Tangedco lineman Vijay while he was allegedly accepting a ₹5,000 bribe from farmer S. Murugesan. Murugesan, 42, owns a 6.5‑acre coconut grove in his father’s name and had obtained a free power connection for the land. He later altered the connection by fitting a capacitor to run a three‑phase motor on a single‑ or two‑phase supply.

When Vijay, attached to the Tangedco Assistant Engineer’s Office in Kadayanallur, discovered the tampering, he photographed it and threatened Murugesan with a ₹1.5 lakh fine unless he paid ₹25,000 as a bribe. Murugesan claimed he could not pay because wild elephants had damaged his grove, but Vijay reportedly insisted on a minimum of ₹5,000.

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After repeated phone demands, Murugesan lodged a complaint with DVAC. During the arrest, police recovered ₹5,000 in cash from Vijay. This follows the August 19 arrest of Forest Range Officer P. Kathiravan, who allegedly demanded a ₹3.69 lakh bribe from a contractor.

Historical Background

Corruption in Tamil Nadu’s electricity distribution sector has a long history, with numerous cases of illegal connections, meter tampering, and power theft. These practices erode state revenue and undermine public confidence in essential services.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that even low‑level corruption cases like this contribute to significant energy loss and financial burden, weakening the effectiveness of government schemes and raising costs for ordinary citizens.

"Curbing corruption in the power sector not only safeguards revenue but also strengthens rural development," says energy policy expert Dr. Ravindran.
Did You Know?: Approximately 30% of India’s electricity generation is lost annually due to theft and unauthorized usage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will Murugesan face legal action?

A: The investigation is ongoing; if he is found complicit in the illegal connection, he could be penalised.

Q2: How does DVAC aim to prevent such incidents?

A: DVAC conducts regular inspections, encourages public complaints, and imposes strict penalties to deter corruption.