Raids on firm linked with ex-TN guv's son

A business firm connected with the son of former Tamil Nadu Governor S S Barnala, a former vice-chancellor of Anna University and some of its employees today came under the vigilance scanner over alleged irregularities in purchase of electronic equipment for the top technical institution.

Officials from the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption conducted searches at the premises of M/s. Barnas International Pvt.Ltd, of which Barnala's son Jasjith Singh is the chairman and managing director.

A probe was conducted based on information that some officials of Anna University in connivance with Barnas International Pvt.Ltd, Chennai, had allegedly fabricated quotations in the names of other companies in limited tender called for purchase of electronic items for various departments of the University to purchase them from Barnas, DVAC release said.

Those whose premises were searched included former Vice-Chancellor of Anna University, D Viswanathan, PM Najimudeen, chief executive officer, Barnas International and P Narayanasamy, professor, Department of Computer Science, Anna University.

Besides, R Yeswanthakumar, head, surveillance/manager (Projects), Barnas International and K Nagarajan, an assistant in the Department of Computer Science, Anna University also came under vigilance scanner, the release said.

Case had been filed against these persons besides some unknown public servants of Anna University under different sections of IPC such as cheating, forgery and criminal conspiracy, it added.