#Akash Baskaran ED raid

[newslime]

Film Producer Akash Baskaran Under ED Scanner in ₹1,000 Crore TASMAC Scam Probe

Chennai, Tamil Nadu – Prominent film producer Akash Baskaran, known for his association with big-ticket Tamil films, has come under the spotlight as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) intensifies its investigation into the ₹1,000 crore TASMAC liquor scam.

On May 16, the ED conducted simultaneous raids at 10 locations across Chennai, including the residences of TASMAC Managing Director Visakan IAS, SNJ Distilleries, several government contractors, and notably, the home and office of Akash Baskaran, who heads Dawn Pictures.

Film Industry in the Crosshairs

Sources within the ED have confirmed that a significant portion of the illicit funds generated through TASMAC operations may have been diverted into the Tamil film industry. Akash Baskaran, who is reportedly linked to Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK party’s first family, is currently producing three major films:

Idli Kadai featuring Dhanush

Paraakshati starring Sivakarthikeyan

Simbu’s 49th film

Investigators believe that these productions may have received funding traced back to laundered proceeds from the TASMAC scam, marking a worrying convergence of political influence, entertainment, and financial irregularities.

Raids Uncover WhatsApp Chats, Real Estate Links

The raids began early Friday at the residence of TASMAC MD Visakan in Manapakkam. During the search, ED officers seized printouts of WhatsApp chats related to liquor procurement, tender disputes, and real estate transactions — key areas now under detailed scrutiny.

ED sources confirmed that they are currently tracing the flow of illicit money, which appears to have been laundered through multiple sectors, including film production, real estate, and infrastructure projects.

Wider Network Under Probe

Apart from Akash Baskaran and TASMAC officials, KS Smart Solutions — a firm that has won major contracts from the Tamil Nadu and Union governments — is also under ED investigation. The company is believed to have received funds tied to the scam, involving multiple government departments such as the Tamil Nadu Police, Aavin, Smart City Projects, and the Directorate of Technical Education.

A number of private individuals linked to the DMK leadership are also being investigated, though their exact roles remain unconfirmed at this stage.

Legal and Political Ramifications

The probe gained momentum after a strongly-worded order by the Madras High Court on April 23, which condemned the Tamil Nadu government’s attempts to obstruct the ED’s investigation. The ED’s case is being pursued under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, and is built on FIRs filed by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC).

These FIRs allege deep-rooted corruption in TASMAC operations — from manipulation of bar tenders and liquor procurement to large-scale mismatches in bottle supply and staff postings — all described by ED officials as a “well-orchestrated scheme to generate black money.”

[journalsmente]

ED Raids Film Producer Akash Baskaran and TASMAC Offices in ₹1000 Crore Scam Probe

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids this morning at the residence and office of prominent film producer Akash Baskaran in Chennai. Baskaran, who heads Dawn Pictures, has worked with top stars like Dhanush, Siva Karthikeyan, and Simbu.

Simultaneously, ED officials, supported by the CRPF, searched multiple TASMAC offices and the homes of officials allegedly linked to a ₹1000 crore scam. The raids are part of an ongoing investigation tied to a case currently being heard at the Madras High Court.

[bloggingtamizhan]

Enforcement Directorate Targets Film Producer Akash Baskaran in Chennai Raid

The Tamil film industry is currently in the spotlight as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has conducted surprise raids at the residence and office of prominent film producer Akash Baskaran in Chennai. This action is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial irregularities connected to his production ventures.

The raids took place at Baskaran’s residence on K.P.N. Dasan Road, Teynampet, a notable area in Chennai. Although the ED has not publicly released detailed information about the probe, insiders suggest the focus is on suspicious financial transactions linked to Baskaran’s production house, Don Pictures.

Akash Baskaran is a rising name in Kollywood, currently producing several high-profile films including Idli Kadai starring Dhanush, the much-anticipated 49th film of Simbu, and Paraakshakti featuring Sivakarthikeyan. These projects have garnered significant attention, making the ED investigation all the more impactful.

Beyond his cinematic achievements, Baskaran is known for his close ties with political figures. His wedding was officiated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, with prominent celebrities like Nayanthara in attendance, which has added an extra layer of interest to the case.

The Tamil film fraternity is closely watching the investigation’s progress, as the outcome could have far-reaching implications for Baskaran’s ongoing projects and the wider industry. Updates regarding the case and any findings from the raids are awaited.

Stay tuned for more details as this developing story unfolds.

[thamilan24x7]

ED Raids Film Producer Akash Baskaran’s Residence and TASMAC Offices in ₹1000 Crore Scam Probe

In a dramatic turn of events this morning, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched a massive operation in Chennai, targeting prominent personalities and offices linked to a ₹1000 crore scam under investigation by the Madras High Court.

Among those at the center of the probe is acclaimed film producer Akash Baskaran, the man behind Dawn Pictures. Known for producing box office hits starring top Tamil cinema icons like Dhanush, Siva Karthikeyan, and Simbu, Baskaran's residence and office were searched by ED officials as part of the high-profile investigation.

Simultaneously, the ED, with support from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), conducted coordinated raids across multiple TASMAC (Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation) offices and the homes of several government officials reportedly linked to the scam.

According to sources, the action stems from allegations filed in the Madras High Court concerning irregularities and possible money laundering in connection with state-run liquor operations—an amount allegedly ballooning to over ₹1000 crore.

While official statements are awaited, the raids have sent shockwaves through both the film and political circles of Tamil Nadu, raising serious concerns about corruption and the murky nexus between politics, business, and the entertainment industry.

Stay tuned for more updates as the investigation unfolds.

[theclarioncall]

Tamil Nadu Govt Appeals to Supreme Court Over ED Searches at TASMAC Involving Akash Baskaran and Ratish

The Tamil Nadu government has escalated its legal battle to the Supreme Court, contesting the Madras High Court's dismissal of its plea against the Enforcement Directorate (ED) searches at the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) headquarters. This case, linked to an alleged Rs. 1000 crore liquor scam, has drawn attention to key figures such as TASMAC Managing Director S Visakan and film producer Akash Baskaran, alongside allegations involving Ratish, a figure reportedly connected to the scam.

Background of the Alleged Liquor Scam Involving Akash Baskaran

The controversy centers on accusations of a massive liquor scam in Tamil Nadu, with claims that distillery companies siphoned off approximately Rs. 1000 crore in unaccounted cash. This money was allegedly used to secure additional supply orders from TASMAC, a state-run liquor marketing body. Following ED raids in March, allegations emerged that TASMAC officials engaged in corrupt practices, including collecting amounts exceeding the maximum retail price (MRP) at TASMAC shops. The involvement of Akash Baskaran and Ratish has been a focal point, with recent ED searches targeting multiple locations, including Baskaran’s residence.

ED's Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The ED initiated its probe based on 41 FIRs filed by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC), which highlighted corruption within TASMAC. On April 23, a Division Bench of the Madras High Court dismissed pleas from the Tamil Nadu government and TASMAC challenging the ED’s searches. The court rejected claims by TASMAC that its employees faced harassment during the raids, stating that detaining employees during searches is standard procedure to prevent evidence tampering. The court further dismissed allegations of fundamental rights violations as an afterthought.

While the case was before the High Court, Tamil Nadu and TASMAC sought to transfer their plea against the ED searches to the Supreme Court, but this request was not entertained. Recently, the ED conducted additional searches across Tamil Nadu, including at the residences of TASMAC MD S Visakan and Akash Baskaran. Reports indicate that Visakan was questioned for nearly 10 hours, with Ratish also reportedly linked to the ongoing investigation.

Arguments Before the Madras High Court

TASMAC argued that the ED’s searches constituted a “roving and fishing inquiry” lacking substantive evidence. They contended that prosecution cannot proceed on mere assumptions of a scheduled offence under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). TASMAC further alleged that the ED withheld its “reasons to believe” for the searches and suggested the raids were politically motivated to tarnish reputations ahead of the Tamil Nadu elections. They also argued that the ED lacked original jurisdiction to investigate unless a scheduled offence under the PMLA was established.

In response, the ED justified its actions, citing multiple FIRs filed by the state police that implicated TASMAC officials in bribery, price inflation, and manipulation of employee postings. The agency maintained that suspicion alone justifies searches and that courts cannot interfere with the agency’s choice of search locations at this stage. The involvement of Akash Baskaran and Ratish in these allegations has intensified scrutiny on the case.

[journalheads]

ED Raids Akash Baskaran: Tamil Cinema’s Dark Side Exposed

In a dramatic twist, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched surprise raids at the residence and office of Tamil film producer Akash Baskaran in Chennai. The investigation is tied to suspected financial misconduct, shaking the foundations of the Tamil film industry.

Inside the Investigation:

Location: Raids are being conducted at Baskaran’s residence on K.P.N. Dasan Road, Teynampet, and his production office.

What’s at Stake: ED officials are scrutinizing financial documents, digital records, and contracts to uncover any irregularities.

Legal Focus: The investigation targets possible money laundering, tax evasion, and misuse of unaccounted funds.

Who is Akash Baskaran?

Akash Baskaran is a prominent producer in Tamil cinema, recognized for his company Don Pictures. Known for his rapid rise in the industry, he is well-connected, with his wedding officiated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and attended by stars like Nayanthara.

What Triggered the ED Probe?

Suspicious Financial Transactions: The ED received reports of unaccounted funds in Baskaran’s productions.

Deep Dive: Officials are examining the source of funds for his past and ongoing film projects.

Possible Expansion: The investigation could extend to other financiers and collaborators if misconduct is proven.

Industry Reacts:

Producers and Directors on Edge: Many fear that their financial dealings could also come under scrutiny.

Social Media Speculation: Fans and industry insiders are debating the impact of this investigation.

Celebrity Silence: Major stars who have worked with Baskaran are yet to comment.

Legal Experts Speak:

If the ED finds evidence of money laundering, Baskaran could face charges under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). His financial partners and collaborators might also be investigated.

What’s Next for Akash Baskaran?

An official statement from the ED is expected soon.

Industry insiders are bracing for more names to emerge in the probe.

Fans are closely following the story, curious about how this will impact his upcoming films.

[eaglevisionlive]

ED Raids Target Akash Baskaran: Tamil Film Industry Faces Major Scandal

ED Raids on Akash Baskaran Shocks Tamil Cinema

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has conducted surprise raids at the residence and office of well-known Tamil film producer Akash Baskaran in Chennai. This investigation has sent shockwaves across the Tamil film industry.

Akash Baskaran, founder of Don Pictures, is known for producing major films in Tamil cinema. The ED's investigation is focused on alleged financial irregularities linked to his film projects.

Raids Location: The ED officials are conducting searches at his residence on K.P.N. Dasan Road, Teynampet, Chennai, as part of the investigation.

Who is Akash Baskaran? A rising name in Tamil cinema, Akash Baskaran has strong connections within the industry and politics. His wedding, officiated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, and attended by stars like Nayanthara, drew significant attention.

What’s Next? The industry is closely watching the developments, with many speculating on the impact of the investigation on his ongoing projects. Stay tuned for real-time updates on this developing story.

Raids Location: The ED officials have targeted his residence on K.P.N. Dasan Road, Teynampet, Chennai, where they are searching for evidence of financial misconduct.

Who is Akash Baskaran? Akash Baskaran is the founder of Don Pictures, a notable name in Tamil cinema. His strong industry and political connections have always made him a figure of interest. Notably, his wedding was officiated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and attended by stars like Nayanthara.

What’s Next? The investigation has caused widespread concern among industry insiders. As details emerge, many are closely watching to see how this case will unfold.