Shillong, July 18: Meghalaya has unexpectedly become part of a political controversy unfolding more than 2,500 kilometres away in Tamil Nadu after an alleged plot to topple the state’s ruling government led by the actor-turned-politician Thalapathy Vijay surfaced under the codename “Project Meghalaya.”

The name has sparked curiosity across Meghalaya, with many questioning whether the state has any connection to the case. The short answer, according to investigators so far, is no.

Chennai Police are investigating an alleged conspiracy to destabilise the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government. The investigation began after TVK MLA N. Ilaiyaraja filed a complaint alleging that he was offered ₹35 crore to vote against the party’s whip during a possible confidence motion.

Police allege that the operation was internally referred to as “Project Meghalaya.” Investigators are examining whether the codename was used as part of a larger plan to engineer defections and bring down the government. A senior television journalist has also been questioned as part of the ongoing probe.

Despite the codename, there is no indication that the State of Meghalaya, the Meghalaya Government, political leaders, or any organisation from the state are linked to the alleged conspiracy. Investigators have not disclosed why the name “Meghalaya” was chosen and no official explanation has been provided so far.

The state’s name appears to have been used solely as an alleged operational codename, much like covert operations are often assigned arbitrary names that do not necessarily reflect the location or people involved.

Chennai Police are continuing to analyse digital evidence, record witness statements and investigate the alleged bribery claims. Authorities have not announced any arrests or reached any final conclusions, and the allegations remain under investigation.

Until investigators explain the origin of the codename, why “Meghalaya” was selected remains one of the unanswered questions in the case.

More updates to follow.