In a high-voltage crackdown, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday morning raided the residence of prominent Tamil film producer Akash Baskaran in Chennai. The move is part of an extensive investigation into a suspected ₹1000 crore scam linked to TASMAC, Tamil Nadu’s government-run liquor distribution corporation.
Akash Baskaran, known for backing blockbuster films under his production house Dawn Pictures, has worked with major stars such as Dhanush, Sivakarthikeyan, and Simbu. His reputation in Kollywood has taken a hit as central agencies zero in on financial irregularities allegedly tied to both the entertainment and liquor industries.
Alongside Baskaran’s residence and office, ED teams—supported by the CRPF—also raided several TASMAC offices and the homes of associated officials across Chennai. These coordinated searches follow a complaint under judicial review at the Madras High Court, which alleges large-scale corruption and fund diversion within TASMAC’s operations.
Sources indicate that the agency suspects a financial web involving misused liquor contracts, money laundering, and possible links to the film financing circuit. Critical documents, laptops, and digital storage devices have been seized during the raids and are currently being scrutinized for evidence of unlawful transactions.
With the investigation still unfolding, the ED is expected to summon individuals connected to the case for questioning. More revelations are anticipated as the probe widens.
Nisham Ismail