VAO demands bribe from farmer, video goes viral

In the video, the VAO identified as Natrajan is seen demanding and receiving money from a farmer, who approached him to apply for the Central government’s farmer income support scheme.

Under the new scheme, farmers with less than five acres of land will be getting Rs 6,000 annually in three instalments of Rs 2,000 each. The amount would be credited into their accounts. The identification of beneficiaries for the scheme is underway.

The incident happened when a group of farmers from Kunampatti village approached Natrajan to apply for the financial assistance.

It was then that the VAO demanded money from one of the farmers. The VAO is heard saying, “Other farmers, waiting outside gave Rs 500, but it would be enough if you give Rs 250.”

The incident captured in the mobile phone had gone viral in WhatsApp and Facebook. Following demands from farmers to investigate the incident and take prompt action against the tainted VAO, the district administration officials held an inquiry and submitted a report to Sub-Collector for further action.