Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Tamil Nadu president Nainar Nagenthran on Tuesday expressed shock over an alleged incident in Salem district involving a functionary of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), who was accused of threatening officials with a knife over the selection of workers for the VB-G RAM G rural employment programme.

According to reports, the TVK functionary allegedly attempted to pressure authorities into employing individuals recommended by him under the rural employment initiative. The incident has drawn political attention, with the BJP questioning the conduct of party members and calling for accountability.

Nagenthran criticised the alleged behaviour and urged TVK founder and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to take steps to control party workers and ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future. He said political influence should not interfere with the implementation of government welfare schemes meant for the public.

The BJP leader stated that government programmes must function according to established rules and procedures, rather than being influenced by individuals attempting to misuse political connections. He emphasised that threats or intimidation against officials involved in public service delivery could weaken administrative systems and affect the interests of genuine beneficiaries.

The alleged incident has also raised concerns about the role of political workers at the local level and the need for maintaining transparency in rural employment schemes. Employment programmes are designed to provide livelihood support to eligible citizens, and any attempt to manipulate beneficiary selection could impact the credibility of such initiatives.

The remarks from the BJP leadership come at a time when TVK is expanding its political presence in Tamil Nadu. The party, founded by actor-turned-politician Vijay, has been seeking to establish itself as a major political force in the state. The controversy has placed additional focus on the party’s internal discipline and the actions of its grassroots members.

Political observers said the allegations could become a point of debate between rival parties, with opponents likely to question whether TVK can effectively manage its growing organisational structure. Meanwhile, attention is expected to remain on the response from TVK leadership regarding the allegations and any action against the accused party worker.

Authorities have not only been tasked with addressing the alleged misconduct but also ensuring that rural employment opportunities continue to reach eligible beneficiaries without external pressure or interference.