Anti-corruption agency probes book purchase irregularities at Tamil Nadu library

The Tamil Nadu anti-corruption authority has launched a formal inquiry into alleged irregularities in book purchases at two major public libraries in Coimbatore, prompted by concerns raised during a recent visit by award-winning writer Perumal Murugan.

Murugan, known for his literary contributions to Tamil literature, identified discrepancies related to the pricing, quality standards, and authenticity of various titles added to the collections at Periyar Arivulagam and Anna Centenary Library. His observations prompted the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) to open an investigation into the procurement procedures.

The probe will examine whether established procurement protocols were followed in the acquisition of books, and whether taxpayer funds allocated for library collections were used appropriately. The investigation is expected to assess pricing practices against standard market rates and evaluate the selection criteria applied to ensure content authenticity and quality standards.

Library procurement processes in public institutions across India have periodically come under scrutiny, with anti-corruption agencies seeking to ensure transparent bidding, fair pricing, and adherence to quality benchmarks. The outcome of this investigation may inform broader governance practices at cultural and educational institutions in the state.