In a provocative speech at the Bison Success Meet, director Ameer Sultan—currently under investigation over drug trafficking allegations linked to the Jaffer Sadiq case—sparked controversy for his pointed remarks on religious and supernatural cinema, seemingly mocking films like Kantara.

During his address, Ameer Sultan challenged journalists who questioned the social impact of director Mari Selvaraj’s hard-hitting films. He scoffed at critics who accused such works of creating divisions in society, calling the notion absurd. Ameer pointed out society’s double standards: while movies about invisible gods and non-existent ghosts (alluding to spiritual blockbusters like Kantara) are celebrated, films about caste—the harsh, visible reality that torments millions—face backlash.

“Nobody has seen god, but if you make a film about it, people celebrate. Ghosts don’t even exist, but humans are worse than ghosts. Ghosts flee in daylight, afraid of humans,” he quipped. Ameer questioned why movies confronting real-life pain and caste injustice should be suppressed, while fantastical narratives receive the public’s adulation.

Given how Kantara became a cultural phenomenon for its rooted portrayal of bhakti, Bhoota Kola, and the spiritual connection between man and nature, Ameer’s comment was viewed as a typical Dravidianist swipe — mocking India’s indigenous belief systems while glorifying divisive identity politics.

This is what Ameer Sultan spoke at the Bison Success Meet: “These journalists are asking Mari one question repeated – Why are you making these kind of films? They say that you’re trying to create problems within in society. I saw how ridiculous such questions were. A God who is invisible, and a ghost that never exists – many films are coming about them and is achieving victory. Nobody has seen god. But if you take a film about it, people are celebrating. Ghost, it doesn’t even exist. I think man is worse than a ghost. That’s why you see that these ghosts come at night. Because during the day it is afraid of humans. Films are being made on these. But the caste that we see in front of our eyes, its ill effects, pain and torture, and someone saying that such films should not be taken is what I feel absurd.”

Who Is Ameer?

Ameer Sultan, a Tamil filmmaker known for his Islamist-Dravidianist leanings, has faced growing scrutiny over his close ties with Jaffer Sadiq, a former DMK NRI Wing official accused of running an international drug-trafficking network. Dubbed Sadiq’s “bestie,” Ameer was named in an ED chargesheet alleging money laundering through films and was summoned by the NCB in April 2024 in connection with the smuggling of pseudoephedrine worth ₹2,000 crore. In October 2024, a special court summoned both Ameer and Sadiq as part of the ongoing money-laundering case. More recently, Ameer was accused of participating in a coordinated smear campaign against Justice G. R. Swaminathan, aligning with the DMK’s broader ideological ecosystem.

At a forum hosted by the Dravidianist YouTube channel “The Debate,” filmmaker Ameer attacked Sanatana Dharma and Brahmins, claiming as a Muslim he stood outside the caste system. He accused “Aryans” of creating caste, linked honor killings to Hindu epics, and praised DMK as Tamil Nadu’s positive force. His comments included sweeping generalizations, targeting practices like Vinayagar Chaturthi as dominated by “intermediate castes” while alleging Brahmins remain aloof. He also quoted EV Ramasamy Naicker (hailed as ‘Periyar’ by his followers) saying “Islam is the best medicine to eliminate racial discrimination.”

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The post Drug Case Accused Islamist-Dravidianist Filmmaker Ameer Sultan Mocks Kantara’s Success? appeared first on The Commune.

One of the most alarming developments under the DMK’s current administration has been the proliferation of drug-related crimes, not just in the streets, but disturbingly, among the party’s own ranks. While the state claims progress in law and order, what’s evident on the ground is a parallel rise in the visibility, availability, and audacity of narcotics trafficking.

A pattern has emerged where several DMK-linked figures have been directly involved in large-scale smuggling and peddling of banned substances. Below are key cases highlighting how deep this rot has spread and why DMK is constantly referred to as “Drug Mafia Kazhagam”.

Jaffer Sadiq – Former Deputy Organizer, DMK NRI Wing (Chennai West)

Jaffer Sadiq, a Tamil film producer and once a rising DMK figure, was exposed as the kingpin of a transnational drug syndicate trafficking pseudoephedrine to Australia and New Zealand. His arrest followed a multi-agency probe after alerts from international drug enforcement agencies. Authorities uncovered that Sadiq had masterminded the concealment of these substances in food exports such as desiccated coconut powder. Over three years, approximately 3,500 kilograms of pseudoephedrine, valued at over ₹2,000 crore, were smuggled abroad under his watch. Following these revelations, he was expelled from the DMK in February 2024.

Syed Ibrahim – DMK Minority Wing Vice President (Ramanathapuram)

Another high-profile embarrassment for the ruling party came in July 2024 when Syed Ibrahim was arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau for trafficking nearly ₹70 crore worth of methamphetamine. The drugs, intercepted in Chennai, were allegedly being routed through Ramanathapuram for delivery to Sri Lanka. Acting under pressure, the DMK expelled Ibrahim from the party, but not before public outrage highlighted the growing entanglement of party officials in cross-border narcotics operations.

Subash Chandra Bose – Alangulam DMK Panchayat Union Councillor

In April 2024, Subash Chandra Bose, a local DMK councillor in Tenkasi, was caught during a vehicle check transporting 600 kilograms of gutka, a banned substance in Tamil Nadu. Despite being the husband of a sitting district panchayat president, he was arrested and later removed from all party responsibilities after his actions drew public ire.

Balamurugan – Treasurer, Srivilliputhur DMK City Unit

Authorities in Srivilliputhur arrested Balamurugan, a DMK functionary, for hoarding and distributing banned gutka and pan masala. His arrest followed a crackdown where police seized 42 kilograms of illicit tobacco products from his home. These items were allegedly supplied in bulk to local vendors.

Mahalingam – Panchayat President, Nagapattinam

Mahalingam, known as “Bullet Mahalingam,” was apprehended after a drug shipment linked to his name was intercepted in Delhi. Although no drugs were found at his residence, his name surfaced repeatedly during questioning of couriers connected to a banned synthetic drug racket. He and Alex, a DMK Union Committee member and Mahalingam’s son, were arrested and handed over to the National Narcotics Bureau.

Maniraj – DMK Student Wing Member, Gudalur

In the Nilgiris district, Maniraj, an auto driver and DMK student wing member, was arrested after police found 1.2 kilograms of ganja in his vehicle. His arrest stemmed from an intensive surveillance campaign in areas notorious for cannabis trade.

Sarbraz Nawaz & Jainuddin – Councillor and Former Councillor, Keezhakarai

In a high-stakes operation in 2022, 300 kilograms of ganja bound for Sri Lanka were seized by police, leading to the arrest of Sarbraz Nawaz, a sitting DMK councillor, and his brother Jainuddin. Both were suspected to be part of a broader international drug network using Tamil Nadu’s coast as a transit hub.

Lakshmanan – DMK Functionary, Nagapattinam

In a sweeping anti-narcotics drive, police detained Lakshmanan from Kodiyakkarai for possession of 300 kilograms of cannabis, intended for smuggling to Sri Lanka. He was one of six individuals arrested in connection with this case.

Ramana – Thiruvarur District DMK Youth Wing co-convener

Ramana, the son of DMK councillor Rajini Chinna alias Chinna Veeran, currently serving as the Thiruvarur District DMK Youth Wing co-convener, has been apprehended by the police for his alleged involvement in smuggling cannabis.

The arrest, which took place amid a surge in concerns over the flourishing cannabis trade in Thiruvarur district, has raised eyebrows about the purported connections between the DMK and the illicit drug market. Ramana, hailing from the 24th ward of the municipality, was taken into custody in connection with the illegal transportation and sale of cannabis.

Locals in the region have long been vocal in accusing a gang with purportedly connected to the DMK of actively facilitating the distribution of cannabis throughout Thiruvarur district. Allegations have surfaced indicating that this faction, allegedly led by Ramana’s father, has been instrumental in thwarting police efforts to crack down on cannabis trade. The authorities are intensifying their efforts to dismantle the gang involved in the sale of cannabis.

Despite repeated arrests and subsequent dismissals from the party, critics argue that the sheer number of drug-related scandals involving DMK officials points not to isolated cases, but a deeper structural failure, or worse, silent complicity. While the DMK high command has issued expulsions post-facto, public perception suggests the rot runs far deeper than the party is willing to admit. In an environment where political access and drug networks increasingly overlap, trust in law enforcement, governance, and public safety continues to erode.

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The post Drug Mafia Kazhagam: List Of DMK Functionaries Involved In Drug Cases appeared first on The Commune.

Tamil film director Ameer has sparked debate with his comments on the Thirubhuvanam custodial death case, appearing to normalize such deaths by drawing comparisons with police brutality incidents around the world. Speaking to the press after attending a special screening of the film Good Day in Chennai, Ameer offered a broad commentary on the systemic nature of custodial violence, suggesting it is neither new nor unique to Tamil Nadu or India.

Director Ameer Sultan, a long-time associate of accused drug trafficker Jaffer Sadiq, was named the 12th accused in the ED’s chargesheet for laundering black money through films. Ever since the link was established, Ameer has been seen pandering to the ruling DMK. He does it once again in the Ajithkumar custodial death case where he is seen normalising such deaths.

Referring to the death of Ajith Kumar in police custody in Thiruppuvanam, Ameer said the incident has served as a lesson to police personnel that blindly following orders from superiors could place their own lives and careers at risk. He stated that the lower-level officers now facing arrest are “trapped,” while those who issued the orders have “escaped.”

In a broader reflection on police behavior, Ameer remarked that the police are rarely aligned with the public and more often serve the interests of those in power.

“I have said hundreds of times that the police are not entirely on the side of the people. They are on the side of power. They are on the side of the rich. That is how history has been. Somewhere, in one or two situations, one or two people will be afraid of their conscience and side with the people. That is how it is. But generally, whoever they are bound to, they will be bound to the officers above them. If this special force comes and enters and beats them, then they will not beat anyone who just walks by. Someone must have given them instructions. Who is he? This Thirubhuvanam case has made those policemen realize that even if the officer says to beat them, their lives will be lost. Now they have escaped, you are trapped. Then this happened in this regime, this happened in that regime, it’s not like that. This has happened in all regimes,” he said.

In a particularly controversial comparison, Ameer referenced the death of George Floyd in the United States, where a white police officer killed a Black man during an arrest. He suggested that such incidents reflect the global reality of police power dynamics. “This has happened in all regimes. It has happened all over the world. Didn’t you see in America that a black youth came, and a white policeman pressed his knee to his neck and killed him? Does that power exist or not? They say it is the power of the people. I don’t think that it should happen here too. I don’t think so, but that is the system. Is it my wish or dream that two deaths must occur in the police station and lock up every day? That is how it is. If you say this occurred in this regime and the previous one was better, or if you think that because it happened in this regime and if there is a change of government because of what happened in this regime, it will not happen, it is completely political.”

“அமெரிக்கா ஐரோப்பியாவிலும் தான் லாக்கெப்டெத் நடைபெறுகிறது”#போதைப்பொருள் கட.த்தல் தலைவன் அமீர்…

சரிடா அமீர் உன் வீட்டில் உள்ளவர்களுக்கு இந்த சம்பவம் நடந்திருந்தால் இதை ஆதரித்திருப்பாயா?

போதை வழக்கில் இருந்து தப்பிக்க யார் காலை எல்லாம் பண்ண வேண்டி இருக்கு.. pic.twitter.com/c9Ygn8JVdi

— பிரியகுமரன் (@kumaranofficia) July 4, 2025

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The post “This Has Happened In All Regimes”: DMK Druglord Jaffer Sadiq’s Bestie Ameer Sultan Whitewashes/Normalizes Ajithkumar Custodial Death To Deflect Blame From Stalin Govt appeared first on The Commune.

In a move drawing sharp criticism, the Madras High Court on Monday (21 April 2025) granted bail to alleged international drug smuggler Jaffer Sadiq alias “Bezos” and his brother Mohamed Saleem in a high-profile money laundering case.

The case, registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, stems from allegations of a ₹2,000 crore pseudoephedrine drug trafficking operation linked to Australia and New Zealand.

Justice Sunder Mohan granted bail by invoking the precedent set by the Supreme Court in July 2024, where then-Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice K.V. Viswanathan granted bail to former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in a PMLA case.

Ironically, the judiciary—which has in recent months aggressively asserted its authority by questioning the roles of Parliament and even issuing directives to the President and the Governor has now released individuals accused of grave transnational crimes. Critics argue that such decisions risk eroding public trust in the system, especially when the accused are allegedly linked to drug cartels and financial crimes of an international scale.

Initially arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Sadiq was dubbed the mastermind of a major drug syndicate responsible for exporting massive quantities of pseudoephedrine. The ED later registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) based on the NCB’s investigation and accused Sadiq and Saleem of laundering drug profits through film production and business fronts.

The High Court’s order is being viewed by many as a glaring example of judicial inconsistency. On one hand the judiciary encroaches on the powers of other institutions of democracy (President and Parliament) by lecturing them on how to do their jobs in a “time bound” manner while on the other hand it gives bail to people involved in international drug smuggling.

(With inputs from The Hindu)

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The post Judiciary That Tells President & Parliament About How To Do Their Jobs, Allows Accused International Drug Kingpin To Walk Free; Madras HC Grants Bail To Jaffer Sadiq, Brother In PMLA Case appeared first on The Commune.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has informed the Madras High Court on 27 February 2025 that drug money was funneled into the bank accounts of film director Ameer and others by Jaffer Sadiq, who is accused of being involved in illegal money transfers.

The ED made this claim in its response to the bail petition filed by Jaffer Sadiq, who has been under investigation for alleged financial crimes linked to drug trafficking. According to the agency, Sadiq deposited funds obtained from drug sales into multiple bank accounts, including that of Ameer.

#Breaking || "அமீர் வங்கி கணக்கில் பணத்தை செலுத்திய ஜாபர் சாதிக்"

"போதைப்பொருள் விற்பனை மூலம் சம்பாதித்த பணத்தை இயக்குனர் அமீர் உள்ளிட்டோரின் வங்கிக் கணக்குகளில் ஜாபர் சாதிக் செலுத்தியுள்ளார்"

சென்னை உயர்நீதிமன்றத்தில் அமலாக்கத்துறை தகவல்#Jabarsathik #ameer #chennai pic.twitter.com/qJJBB9b8ru

— Thanthi TV (@ThanthiTV) February 27, 2025

Ameer has been named as the 12th accused in the ED’s chargesheet. Ameer had tried to wash his hands off of Sadiq by claiming that he was unaware of Sadiq’s “other face” and also stated that the shooting of the film Iraivan Miga Periyavan was halted abruptly following the news of the ₹2000 crore drug bust. However, during launch function of his film “Iraivan Miga Periyavan” in February 2022, Ameer is seen saying Jaffer Sadiq is a distant relative of his. He also mentions that Sadiq had been requesting Ameer to direct a film under his banner for 5 years.

In November 2024, the ED revealed that Jaffer Sadiq, a former DMK functionary under investigation for running international drug trafficking ring, used black money to finance movies made by Dravidianist filmmaker Ameer Sultan.

The ED also filed charges against 12 individuals and eight companies in a money laundering case linked to Jaffer Sadiq. The charges, filed in a CBI court in Chennai, name Sadiq’s brother, wife, business associate, and Dravidianist actor-director Ameer Sulthan, among others. The accused allegedly laundered drug proceeds from pseudoephedrine exports to Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand through real estate, film production, hospitality, and logistics businesses.

The case stems from three major drug seizures: 50 kg of pseudoephedrine in Delhi (2024), 39 kg of ketamine in Mumbai (2018), and 50 kg of pseudoephedrine in Chennai (2015). Drugs were smuggled disguised as food products and bangles. Over ₹30 crore in cash deposits were found in various entities linked to Sadiq. The ED has attached assets worth ₹55.3 crore, including properties owned by Sadiq, his wife, and associates.

Ameer Sulthan allegedly benefited from Sadiq’s laundered funds, investing them in films under JSM Pictures and co-owning a business with Sadiq. The court took cognizance of the prosecution complaint on 18 October 2024, as investigations continue.

Who Is Jaffer Sadiq?

Sadiq, a producer of five Tamil films, was the leader of a cartel responsible for shipping Pseudoephedrine from India to Australia and New Zealand, as per the sources. Four other individuals from Tamil Nadu were apprehended in a Delhi warehouse.

Sadiq, who was affiliated with the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and serving as the Deputy Organiser for the Chennai West NRI Wing, was permanently expelled from the party on 25 February 2024 following the revelation of his involvement with the drug cartel. The case unraveled when authorities from New Zealand and Australia alerted Indian agencies about substantial drug smuggling in their countries, disguised as food products. The NCB was probing the possibility of drug money being used to fund films.

In February, New Zealand customs and Australian police provided information about large amounts of pseudoephedrine, hidden in desiccated coconut powder, being shipped to both countries. Additional information from the US Drug Enforcement Administration pointed to Delhi as the source of the consignment.

An international drug trafficking network has been broken up by a combined operation from the NCB and the Special Cell of Delhi Police, resulting in the seizure of at least 50 kg of Pseudoephedrine in Delhi.

Following extensive questioning, officials disclosed that over the past three years, 45 shipments containing roughly 3,500 kg of pseudoephedrine, worth over ₹2,000 crore in the international market, had been dispatched.

On 9 March 2024, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) announced the arrest of Jaffer Sadiq, the mastermind behind the India-Australia-New Zealand drug trafficking network. According to the NCB, Sadiq is reportedly the mastermind behind the drug trafficking ring spanning India, Australia, and New Zealand. Sadiq, who has five film productions to his credit, allegedly operated a cartel that transported pseudoephedrine from India to Australia and New Zealand. Four individuals from Tamil Nadu were apprehended in a Delhi warehouse two weeks prior.

Director Ameer Sulthan’s close ties with drug kingpin Jaffer Sadiq have come under scrutiny. At the 2022 launch of Iraivan Miga Periyavan, Ameer called Sadiq a “distant relative” and praised his business ventures. They co-founded 4AM Coffee and Law Cafe, with Ameer also serving as a director in Sadiq’s Zuko Overseas Pvt Ltd. Sadiq produced Ameer’s films under JSM Pictures, and DMK Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin’s wife attended Mangai’s music launch. Ameer also inaugurated Sadiq’s Saleem Bhai Biriyani. Their political connections, including meetings with MK Stalin, raise questions about Ameer’s financial sources and his deep ties to the DMK-linked businessman.

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The post ED Says Ex-DMK Functionary Jaffer Sadiq Deposited Drug Money Into Dravidianist Director Ameer’s Account, Ameer Had Claimed He Was Unaware Of Sadiq’s “Other Face” appeared first on The Commune.

Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai has demanded an explanation from DMK Minister Anbil Mahesh regarding allegations uncovered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) linking the Tamil Nadu Textbook Corporation to money laundering operations by Coalescence Ventures, a firm owned by former DMK NRI Wing President and international drug trafficker Jaffer Sadiq.

The ED probe has revealed that proceeds from Sadiq’s narcotics trafficking were funnelled through the corporation via fraudulent business deals, raising serious questions about the involvement of state entities in financial crimes.

The BJP state chief called on Mahesh to address the allegations linking former DMK NRI Wing President and international drug trafficker Jaffer Sadiq’s company, Coalescence Ventures, to money laundering activities involving the Tamil Nadu Textbook Corporation, as revealed by the Enforcement Directorate.

In a post on his official X account, K. Annamalai stated, “The Enforcement Directorate’s investigation has exposed that international drug trafficking kingpin and DMK leader Jaffer Sadiq used the Tamil Nadu Textbook Corporation to launder money from drug sales. It has come to light that Sadiq’s company, Coalescence Ventures, entered into an agreement with Sri Appu Direct, a contractor for the Tamil Nadu Textbook Corporation, and supplied goods. The investigation also revealed that Sadiq invested proceeds from drug sales into Coalescence Ventures between 2022 and 2023. Notably, Sri Appu Direct had a contract with the Tamil Nadu Textbook Corporation during the same period, with goods supplied by Sadiq’s company. This indicates that the Tamil Nadu Textbook Corporation indirectly facilitated the laundering of money linked to drug trafficking. I call on the Minister of School Education, Mr. Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, to explain this.”

சர்வதேச போதைப்பொருள் கடத்தல் கும்பல் தலைவனும், திமுக நிர்வாகியுமான ஜாஃபர் சாதிக், போதைப் பொருள் விற்பனை மூலம் கிடைத்த பணத்தை வெள்ளையாக்குவதற்கு, தமிழ்நாட்டுப் பாடநூல் கழகத்தைப் பயன்படுத்தியுள்ளது அமலாக்கத்துறை விசாரணையில் தெரியவந்துள்ளது. ஜாஃபர் சாதிக்கின் நிறுவனமான Coalescence… pic.twitter.com/v0YQNkqooV

— K.Annamalai (@annamalai_k) December 16, 2024

The ED investigation has revealed that one of Jaffer Sadiq’s 21 businesses, which allegedly funnelled proceeds from international drug trafficking, supplied geometry boxes and school bags to a contractor of the Tamil Nadu Textbook Corporation.

Jaffer Sadiq, a former DMK functionary expelled for his involvement in trafficking controlled substances like pseudoephedrine and ketamine to Australia, New Zealand, and Malaysia, is facing trial for his role in these operations and the significant wealth he amassed through them. Recently, the ED filed a chargesheet against Sadiq and 11 other individuals, including his brother Saleem and several associates, before a special court in Chennai.

According to sources, Coalescence Ventures, a partnership firm founded by Sadiq and his business partner S. Ramesh in December 2020, procured goods from a Noida-based company, Matrix, and sold them to Sri Appu Direct, a contractor for the Tamil Nadu Text Book Corporation located in Cuddalore. While Sri Appu Direct has not been charged as an accused, further investigations by the ED uncovered evidence of the company’s officials allegedly bribing high-ranking officials in the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry governments. Attempts to contact the firm for comment were unsuccessful.

Reports indicate that Sadiq invested Rs. 40 lakh in cash and contributed between Rs. 1-1.5 crore to Ramesh for Coalescence Ventures between December 2022 and January 2023, with the funds believed to have originated from his narcotics trafficking activities. The profit-sharing agreement was reportedly set at 51:49 in favor of Sadiq.

The sale of goods to Sri Appu Direct was routed through Green Cosmic Infra, a shell company owned by Ramesh. This circular transaction—goods moving from Matrix to Coalescence, then to Green Cosmic Infra, and finally to Sri Appu Direct—has been identified as a method to launder the illicit proceeds of crime, according to ED investigators.

Further analysis revealed that while Ramesh managed Coalescence’s day-to-day operations, the firm’s bank account was opened and controlled by Sadiq’s brother Saleem, who also received all one-time passwords (OTPs) and other transaction details on his phone.

Additionally, Ramesh has been linked by both the ED and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) to attempts to recruit individuals to manage Sadiq’s operations in Australia. ED’s investigation revealed that a portion of Ramesh’s investment, approximately Rs. 15 lakh, was transferred to his account by Suresh Mohan, one of the individuals Sadiq attempted to send to New Zealand to oversee his drug trafficking activities there.

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The post Firm Linked To Drug Lord And Expelled DMK Man Jaffer Sadiq Supplied Geometry Box & School Bags To TN Text Book Corporation Contractor Using Money From Drug Sales, BJP Demands Explanation appeared first on The Commune.

Tamil Nadu CM and DMK chief MK Stalin hailed fearless journalism as a pillar of democracy, but the state media seems increasingly compromised, prioritizing trivial issues over serious concerns. While scandals involving DMK-linked figures involve serious charges such as corruption and drug trafficking allegations, the media remains fixated on celebrity feuds and sensationalism, raising questions about its role in holding power to account.

On National Press Day, 16 November 2024, CM Stalin took to his official X account to emphasize the importance of fearless journalism. He expressed, “On this #NationalPressDay, we honour the relentless efforts of journalists who uphold truth and accountability. In an era of rising intolerance, their courage remains democracy’s last line of defence. Journalism must thrive, unshackled by fear or favour. Let us stand firm to protect the voices that safeguard our democracy.“

On this #NationalPressDay, we honour the relentless efforts of journalists who uphold truth and accountability.

In an era of rising intolerance, their courage remains democracy’s last line of defence. Journalism must thrive, unshackled by fear or favour. Let us stand firm to…

— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) November 16, 2024

However, while the Chief Minister called for brave and independent journalism, the reality on the ground raises a significant question: does the media in Tamil Nadu report the truth, or is it compromised? Serious issues are unfolding across the state, but the Dravidianist media seems more focused on shielding its political masters in the DMK from criticism.

Rather than highlighting pressing concerns, the media appears to be diverting attention to trivial matters and sensationalizing them. Current, critical issues are being deliberately downplayed, while less significant stories are given undue prominence—raising doubts about the true role of media in holding power to account.

1. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) recently raided the home of Lottery Martin and confiscated ₹8.8 crore in cash. Martin, known for his significant political donations, had previously donated ₹1,368 crore in electoral bonds. Of this amount, 77% came from his company, which contributed primarily to the DMK.
2. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a prosecution complaint against former DMK NRI Wing chief Jaffer Sadiq, accusing him of running an international drug trafficking ring. The ED has also attached 21 of his businesses across Tamil Nadu, which were allegedly used to launder black money through various channels, including financing films with illicit funds. Sadiq’s buddy, Dravidianist director and actor Ameer Sulthan, is also implicated in these activities.
3. Three days ago, the AIADMK IT wing lodged a complaint with the DVAC, accusing Minister Senthil Balaji of a ₹397 crore corruption scandal. Balaji, who was jailed for over a year in an money laundering linked to cash-for-jobs scam case, was recently granted bail and resumed his ministerial role in the reshuffled cabinet.
4. In contrast to the arrest of actress Kasthuri Shankar, who was taken from her home in Hyderabad, Minister Senthil Balaji’s brother, despite being sought by the High Court, remains on the run with no progress in his arrest. Meanwhile, controversial YouTuber Mohammed Irfan, who has a history of violating state laws, and Dravidianist journalist Mukhthar, known for producing content that abuses, shames, and insults the dignity of women, continue to roam free.

Instead of focusing on the pressing issues facing the state, Dravidian media has been preoccupied with trivial matters like the arrest of actress Kasthuri Shankar, portraying it as if she were in hiding, or obsessing over the release of the latest Dravidianist actor Suriya’s film ‘Kanguva’, despite it receiving harsh criticism from audiences. The media also gave excessive attention to comments made by Suriya’s wife, who blamed the film’s poor performance on audience criticism. Additionally, there was much focus on a public spat between actor Dhanush and actress Nayanthara over the rights to movie clips, with both accusing each other of immoral behavior in real life.

What was truly shocking was a private news channel dedicating a prime-time debate to the Dhanush-Nayanthara feud—an example of how today’s media in the state has descended to new lows.

ஆயுத எழுத்து || நயன்தாரா – தனுஷ் மோதலின் உண்மை பின்னணி என்ன?

இன்று இரவு 8 மணிக்கு #Ayuthaezhuthu | #ActorDhanush | #Nayanthaara | #vigneshshivan | #TamilCinema | #ThanthiTV pic.twitter.com/r6cVnpcWWe

— Thanthi TV (@ThanthiTV) November 16, 2024

Political critics suggest that the media’s deliberate focus on trivial issues is a result of its alignment, either directly or indirectly, with the ruling DMK party. This comes at a time when the DMK is facing severe criticism for its deteriorating law and order situation. For example, a theater in Tirunelveli was recently attacked with three petrol bombs for screening a movie that depicted the life of an army officer and promoted nationalism.

Additionally, the DMK’s allies have started voicing their discontent, especially after Udhayanidhi Stalin, the DMK scion, was promoted to the position of Deputy Chief Minister. These allies, who have long been working with the DMK since as a opposition party, now find themselves sidelined and excluded from meaningful power within the administration.

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The post How DMK Government And Dravidianist Media Is Grabbing News Cycle To Deflect From Real Issues appeared first on The Commune.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has revealed that Jaffer Sadiq, a former DMK functionary under investigation for running international drug trafficking ring, used black money to finance movies made by Dravidianist filmmaker Ameer Sultan.

According to an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Sadiq invested at least ₹10 crore into film production as part of an effort to disguise and launder profits from an international drug trafficking network he reportedly ran alongside his brothers, Mohammed Saleem and Mydeen Gani. Notably, Sadiq launched Mydeen as the lead actor in an upcoming film titled Iraivan Miga Periyavan, directed by Ameer Sulthan.

According to the report by The New Indian Express, the ED’s investigation reveals that Sadiq established JSM Pictures, a partnership with his stepbrother Nagoor Kani, and JSM Pictures (OPC) Pvt Ltd around 2021, initiating six films under production. Director Ameer Sulthan, identified as Sadiq’s close associate for over a decade, allegedly played a significant role in guiding Sadiq’s entry into the film industry. Sadiq and Ameer were also business partners in Zuko Overseas Pvt Ltd, a company set up to import and sell dry fruits in Chennai.

The probe uncovered that Sadiq utilized a middleman, AVS Marimuthu, to funnel ₹10 crore of illicit funds into JSM Pictures. Marimuthu reportedly distributed cash from Sadiq to various financiers, who then deposited the money into JSM Pictures’ account as loans, with interest rates of 9-12% over a three-month period. In return, financiers and Marimuthu earned a 3% commission, while multiple bank accounts belonging to Marwaris in North Chennai were used to facilitate these transactions, netting commissions between ₹30,000 and ₹2 lakh.

The ED searched Marimuthu’s premises after filing a money laundering case. During their investigation, they discovered a yellow diary and several Excel sheets at JSM Pictures, which revealed that actors and technicians working on Sadiq’s films were compensated with cash allegedly sourced from drug exports. The agency recorded ₹6.31 crore in cash payments for film-related expenses.

Additionally, the ED identified cash injections into films like Mayavalai and Iraivan Miga Periyavan, the former being co-produced by Sadiq and Ameer. The investigation also highlighted ₹3.3 crore in cash deposits in bank accounts associated with Ameer, suspected to be drug money from Sadiq’s operations, suggesting a deep financial link between Ameer, Sadiq, and his brothers.

Ameer has been named as the 12th accused in the ED’s chargesheet. Ameer tried to wash his hands off of Sadiq by claiming that he was unaware of Sadiq’s “other face” and also stated that the shooting of the film Iraivan Miga Periyavan was halted abruptly following the news of the ₹2000 crore drug bust. However, during launch function of his film “Iraivan Miga Periyavan” in February 2022, Ameer is seen saying Jaffer Sadiq is a distant relative of his. He also mentions that Sadiq had been requesting Ameer to direct a film under his banner for 5 years.

The ED has already attached assets worth ₹55.3 crore, including properties linked to Sadiq, his wife, and other associates. Ameer Sultan, is accused of benefiting from Sadiq’s illicit activities by investing the laundered funds into movies produced under his banner, JSM Pictures.

Director Ameer and Jaffer Sadiq have also launched a coffee shop named 4AMCoffee and Kitchen under the Mahyan Pvt Ltd incorporation at ECR near Chennai. The managing director of this organisation, Abdul Basith, is also a director of Zuko Overseas Pvt Ltd along with Jaffer Sadiq. Interestingly, Ameer is also a director of Zuko Overseas Pvt Ltd.

Jaffer Sadiq’s production company, JSM Pictures, currently has six films in various stages of development. These include Iraivan Miga Periyavan, directed by Ameer and starring Mydeen, and Mangai, helmed by Gubenthiran with Anandhi in the lead role. Another project, Indra, is directed by Sabari and features Vasanth Ravi. Additionally, there are two untitled films in the works—one directed and headlined by Dheena, and another directed by Vivek with Mydeen in a starring role. The sixth film, Maayavalai, is co-produced with Ameer, directed by Ramesh, and stars Satya. Interestingly, Sadiq’s X handle’s cover pic had 4 posters – the three mentioned above and a film named Maayavalai which is produced by Ameer’s own production house and co-produced by Vetrimaran’s Grass Root Film along with Jaffer Sadiq.

It is noteworthy that DMK Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin’s wife Kiruthiga Udhayanidhi was the chief guest at the launch of a single from the film Mangai.

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The post ED Probe Reveals How Ex-DMK Functionary And Drug Lord Jaffer Sadiq Funneled Drug Money Into Films Directed By Dravidianist Director Ameer Sultan appeared first on The Commune.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has revealed that Jaffer Sadiq, a former DMK functionary under investigation for running international drug trafficking ring, used black money from the illegal trade to launder funds through investments in 21 businesses across Tamil Nadu. According to report by The New Indian Express, these businesses spanned various sectors, including iron and steel scrap, seafood, imported dates and perfume, indoor sports facilities, restaurants, and Tamil film production.

Sadiq, who is being probed for his role in trafficking controlled substances like pseudoephedrine and ketamine between 2014 and 2024 to countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and Malaysia, ran a complex money laundering operation. The illicit funds were funneled into the bank accounts of Sadiq, his associates, and their companies, disguised as unsecured loans.

Agents facilitated this by depositing unaccounted cash from the drug trade into these accounts, earning commissions of 1% to 3% for their role in the process. These transactions, described as “accommodation entries,” have been detailed in the ED’s chargesheet submitted to a CBI court in Chennai.

The illicit funds were also funneled into at least 14 properties valued at ₹52.5 crore and nine luxury cars worth ₹4.38 crore, all registered in the names of Sadiq, his family, and close associates. The purchase of these assets was similarly structured through accommodation entries, with payments made using Demand Drafts (DDs). Furthermore, the construction of the properties was paid for entirely in cash. The ED also found substantial unexplained cash deposits amounting to ₹33.9 crore in the accounts of Sadiq, his family, associates, and associated companies.

(Image Credit: TNIE)

Although many of these businesses reported losses and generated no profits, both Sadiq and his brother Saleem, who co-owned several ventures, paid themselves substantial salaries. The Income Tax Returns (ITRs) of these companies were found to be falsified, containing inconsistencies and inaccuracies. For example, JSM Residency, a hotel built by Sadiq in Purasawalkam in 2015, failed to account for electricity expenses despite offering air-conditioned rooms. Similarly, a biryani shop run by Saleem in 2020 showed a revenue of ₹1.5 crore, but lacked proper invoices for the purchase of spices and condiments, with only doctored bills for chicken and mutton purchases.

Sadiq’s fish trading ventures claimed an impressive 32% profit, despite daily records showing a more realistic margin of around 8%. The ED also noted suspicious inter-business transactions, which suggested money laundering. For example, Vistara Iron and Steel, a scrap dealership owned by Sadiq, transferred funds to a chit fund for an investment on his behalf, with the earnings from this fund subsequently routed into his personal accounts.

Analysis of the ITRs for Sadiq and his family revealed significant financial anomalies. His capital account showed an increase from ₹7.15 lakh in FY13 to ₹2.3 crore in FY14, with the figure rising progressively to ₹13.86 crore by FY18, according to the ED’s investigation.

How Jaffer Sadiq laundered his drug money through 21 business in Tamil Nadu:

ED's investigation has found that Sadiq had firms in scrap trade, seafood, indoor sports, Tamil film industry and restaurants.

To convert black money into white, he used a network of agents who would… pic.twitter.com/zBcMfxc70s

— Siddharth Prabhakar (@Sidprabhakar7) November 16, 2024

Political critics argue that without the intervention of the central government, the DMK would not have taken any action or uncovered the massive drug ring in question. They point to several instances that highlight the party’s questionable involvement. For example, the JSM Residency in Chennai, which was a two-star hotel, was inaugurated by DMK’s HRCE Minister PK Sekar Babu. Additionally, the promotion of Saleem Bhai’s biryani was done in collaboration with Dravidianist director Ameer Sulthan. Furthermore, JSM Productions, which produced the film ‘Mangai‘, saw Kiruthiga Udhayanidhi (DMK scion Udhayanidhi Stalin’s wife) as the chief guest for the launch of the film’s single.

போதை கடத்தல் மன்னன் ஜாபர் சாதிக் துவங்கிய நிறுவனங்களில் ஒன்றுதான் இந்த pitch n play மைதானம்…

தேசிய போதை தடுப்பு பிரிவு சோதனை செய்து கண்டுபிடிக்கும் வரை துரும்பை கூட கிள்ளி போடவில்லையே தமிழக காவல்துறை @mkstalin ? pic.twitter.com/mGD9WlaRUK

— CTR.Nirmalkumar (@CTR_Nirmalkumar) November 16, 2024

One of the businesses of Jaffer Sadiq is Pitch n Play which was inaugurated by DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran.

In the video shared by ADMK functionary CTR Nirmalkumar, YouTuber Mohamed Irfan can be seen playing in the Pitch N Play (as part of promotion?). It is noteworthy that Irfan, known for frequently flouting laws, shares a close relationship with the DMK scion. He did a public relations video with DMK scion and Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin in November 2022. Recently Irfan found himself in soup after he posted a video on his YouTube channel, “Irfan’s View”, filmed at a private hospital in Chennai. The video depicted Irfan cutting his newborn’s umbilical cord on camera as he and his wife, Aaliya, celebrated the birth of their first child. The Health Department took immediate action against the hospital while Irfan remains untouched.

The post ED Uncovers Massive Money Laundering Operation By Ex-DMK Functionary Jaffer Sadiq, Involving 21 Tamil Nadu Businesses And Drug Trade Profits appeared first on The Commune.

Tamil Nadu: A Key Transit Hub for International Methamphetamine Smuggling

Tamil Nadu has emerged as a significant transit point for international drug syndicates trafficking methamphetamine and its precursor, pseudoephedrine, to countries like Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Australia, where there is a high demand for these substances, according to Indian investigators.

Rise In Methamphetamine Seizures

Recent data from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Chennai highlights a sharp rise in the seizures of methamphetamine headed for Sri Lanka. The NCB’s seizures jumped from 12 kg in 2021 to 66 kg in 2022, and to 81 kg in 2023, signaling a notable increase in transnational meth trafficking. In 2024 alone, both the NCB and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in Chennai have confiscated 57 kg of the drug, with an estimated street value of ₹360 crore across just four major cases. All of these seizures involved methamphetamine sourced from Myanmar and smuggled en route to Sri Lanka. The latest seizure occurred last week when the DRI confiscated 10 kg of meth, leading to the arrest of six individuals and the dismantling of an international drug syndicate.

Methamphetamine trafficking is a highly lucrative illegal business, with prices varying significantly depending on the location. In Manipur, meth costs between ₹50,000 and ₹1,00,000 per kilogram, while in Chennai, the price reaches around ₹7 lakh per kilogram. However, the street value of the drug multiplies substantially in countries like Sri Lanka and Malaysia. The NCB estimates that methamphetamine can fetch up to ₹10 crore per kilogram in these markets, while the DRI values it at approximately ₹5 crore per kilogram in international trade.

Investigations reveal that methamphetamine is primarily sourced from Myanmar, part of the notorious Golden Triangle region known for producing large quantities of illicit drugs. The narcotic is then smuggled across the border into Manipur and subsequently transported to Tamil Nadu via human carriers who travel by train.

(Image Credit: TNIE)

Transport And Smuggling Routes

After entering Tamil Nadu, the methamphetamine is moved to coastal towns like Rameswaram, Thoothukudi, and Nagapattinam via bus, train, or car, often in specially concealed compartments designed to evade detection. From these towns, the drugs are transported to Sri Lanka via mid-sea transfers, often coordinated with fishing boats crossing the porous maritime border.

According to law enforcement, trafficking syndicates heavily rely on Sri Lankan Tamils residing in Tamil Nadu, particularly in cities and refugee camps, to help coordinate and execute the smuggling operations. Locals from Manipur also play an important role in navigating the trade routes, and this particular smuggling network has reportedly expanded over the past five years.

Local Connections And Cross-Border Networks

A closer look at some of the recent arrests sheds light on how the trafficking networks operate. For instance, an individual arrested in Chennai’s Koyambedu area, a major wholesale market, was found to be a vegetable trader with established business links to Sri Lanka. In another recent DRI seizure, one of the arrested individuals was a Tamil man who had lived in Manipur before moving to Tamil Nadu, illustrating the cross-border nature of the syndicate’s operations.

Moreh, a town located near the India-Myanmar border in Manipur, has become a key focal point in the drug trade. The town is home to a sizable Tamil community, and investigators have linked some individuals from Moreh to drug syndicates operating in Red Hills, Chennai. In 2023, the NCB arrested three Tamils from Imphal in a 4 kg methamphetamine seizure in Tamil Nadu, which later led to a much larger 11 kg seizure in Manipur—the agency’s largest of the year.

The Role Of Sri Lankan Tamils And Manipur Locals

Drug syndicates involved in methamphetamine trafficking often rely on Sri Lankan Tamils for logistical support, especially when it comes to coordinating mid-sea transfers and managing hawala-based financial transactions. Their familiarity with maritime routes and the coastal regions of both Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka makes them invaluable to these operations. Locals from Manipur also play a crucial role in helping syndicates navigate the complex and often treacherous trade routes that run along India’s northeastern border.

While Tamil Nadu serves as a key transit hub for methamphetamine, officials note that the consumption of meth within the state remains relatively low. Those seeking high-end drugs in Tamil Nadu are more likely to prefer substances like cocaine or LSD, rather than methamphetamine. Despite this, the state’s role as a major trafficking corridor for international drug syndicates highlights its increasing involvement in the global narcotics trade, which continues to expand despite ongoing enforcement efforts.

Earlier reports had also pointed to Tamil Nadu’s growing role as a critical location for the transshipment of illegal narcotics. Investigations over the past few years have increasingly focused on the state’s coastal routes and border areas, which serve as key points for the smuggling of methamphetamine from Southeast Asia to international markets.

In one high-profile case in 2022, the NCB seized a record 100 kg of methamphetamine in Chennai, originating from Myanmar and destined for Sri Lanka. That seizure, along with others, further cemented Tamil Nadu’s position as a major hub in the global methamphetamine trade. Authorities have since ramped up surveillance and intelligence sharing to combat this growing problem, but the complex nature of the trafficking networks continues to challenge law enforcement agencies.

Into Jaffer Sadiq's international drug syndicate: To run his cartel in Australia and NZ, Sadiq hired three drivers who fraudulently obtained Dubai work permits and resident visas and tried to send them to Auckland.

Six firms in Chennai, Trichy and Delhi sent 237 consignments to… pic.twitter.com/y19txpbZss

— Siddharth Prabhakar (@Sidprabhakar7) November 15, 2024

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The post Ex-DMK Functionary Jaffer Sadiq’s Global Drug Syndicate Modus Operandi: From Using Indian Front Companies Like ‘Ganesh Chemicals’ And ‘Krishna Chemicals’ To Recruiting Drivers With International License To Move Drugs appeared first on The Commune.