Tech entrepreneur calls for tougher action against high-level corruption and drug trafficking, urging the state government to examine Singapore’s approach.
Zoho founder and chief scientist Sridhar Vembu has urged Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay to consider adopting tougher laws against corruption and drug trafficking, citing Singapore as a possible model for stronger enforcement. His remarks have added to the ongoing discussion around governance, accountability, and administrative reform in the state.
In a post on X on Sunday, Vembu suggested that the Tamil Nadu government examine Singapore-style legislation to address serious corruption and drug-related offences. Among his proposals was the possibility of severe punishment, including the death penalty for future cases involving high-level corruption. The comments were framed as policy suggestions rather than an announcement of any proposed legislation. Vembu’s intervention comes as the newly formed government under Chief Minister Vijay faces expectations over its approach to governance and institutional reforms.
Singapore model at the centre of the debate.
Singapore is frequently cited in discussions on public-sector integrity because of its strict anti-corruption framework and strong enforcement mechanisms. Vembu argued that Tamil Nadu could examine lessons from the country’s governance model while developing its own approach to tackling corruption.
He also suggested that senior ministers and government officials should receive significantly higher salaries, alongside stronger accountability. The underlying argument is that better compensation should be accompanied by firm enforcement and transparent administration.
Focus on faster justice and accountability.
Vembu’s suggestions extended beyond punishment. He called for an efficient judicial system capable of dealing with corruption cases without prolonged delays. In his view, stronger laws would have limited impact if investigations and court proceedings do not result in timely outcomes.
He also distinguished between addressing past wrongdoing and preventing future misconduct, suggesting that the government could consider a different approach towards earlier cases while maintaining a stricter stance on future corruption.
The comments follow Vembu’s earlier public criticism of alleged corruption in Tamil Nadu. In June, he claimed that a rural school project associated with him had faced delays in obtaining approvals under the previous government. He alleged that money had been demanded during the process. He later said approvals became quicker after Vijay’s government took office.
