The Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) has launched a detailed investigation into alleged irregularities in the purchase of books for government libraries across Tamil Nadu. As part of the investigation, DVAC teams inspected procurement records at the Anna Centenary Library in Kotturpuram, Chennai, and Periyar Arivulagam in Coimbatore on November 10.
The investigation follows allegations of financial irregularities, inflated prices and the purchase of poor-quality books containing factual errors and questionable authorship. The controversy came to light after noted Tamil writer Perumal Murugan raised concerns about several books acquired for Periyar Arivulagam, questioning their historical accuracy, authorship and authenticity.
According to investigation officials, a team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police Kandasamy examined procurement documents at the Anna Centenary Library and collected records for further scrutiny. In Coimbatore, another team examined financial transactions, accounts and purchase-related documents.
The investigation will focus on the book selection process, publishers, pricing, payments and possible misuse or diversion of public funds. Officials will also examine whether government procurement procedures were followed and identify those responsible for any irregularities.
The allegations include the purchase of books reportedly containing AI-generated content, fabricated author details and misleading historical information at unusually high prices. The state government has also initiated steps to examine similar purchases in other public libraries.
DVAC officials indicated that responsibility would be fixed after the inquiry. A formal case is expected to be registered after obtaining approval from the state government.
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