The Tamil Nadu state social justice department has issued show-cause notices to members of the state commission for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes, including vice-chairperson and writer Imayam. The notices, issued on August 25 by TAH DCO managing director K. Kandasamy, allege that the members misused their powers, failed to discharge their duties, and lacked coordination. The department has given the members three days to explain why they should not be removed from their posts.
Commission members have alleged that the government's action is politically motivated, claiming the administration seeks to remove appointees from the previous DMK government to install its own nominees. Some members are reportedly considering legal action. The notice further stated that no board meeting had been held since August 21, 2025, and that petitions were not being properly addressed.
Social welfare minister Vanniarasu rejected the allegations of political vendetta, stating that the government intends to reconstitute the commission to make it more effective. The minister noted that while he respects Imayam as a writer, the commission failed to conduct inquiries into cases of caste violence. Imayam confirmed he had decided to resign from his post but declined to provide further details.
