Probe to TVK MLA running government bus without valid license during scheme launch

TVK MLA E. Thendral Kumar, inside a TNSCTC bus at terminus in Vellore city. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

Transport Ministry to conduct inquiry into incident TVK MLA for KV Kuppam Assembly Constituency, E. Thendral Kumar was seen driving a Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) bus at the new terminus, during the launch of the ‘Vettri Payanam’ programme.

The action comes in the wake of a public outcry following a video that went viral on social media. The video showed Mr. Kumar driving a government bus carrying around 30 commuters after Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay inaugurated the program at Chennai’s Koyambedu bus terminus on Friday. “According to the norms, only those drivers who are authorized to drive heavy vehicles with a badge are eligible to drive heavy vehicles like buses. An inquiry will be conducted,” said a transport official.

PS Collector Leela Alex in the presence of Vellore Corporation Commissioner A. Catherine Saranya, TVK MLA Kumar, TNSTC and transport officials flagged off the buses at the terminus to launch a scheme to extend free bus travel to women and transgender persons in the state.

“It was scary because the bus driven by MLA Mr. Kumar was moving faster in areas where many commuters, including women and children, were waiting to board the buses,” said a commuter.

Initial investigation revealed that after the buses were stopped by the District Collector, Mr. Kumar volunteered to drive the vehicle in the open portico of the terminus from the main entrance to a distance of about 100 meters. He was reportedly seen in the video questioning the bus driver about the control device.

Transport officials said that as per the norms, light vehicle license holders can only drive cars, maxi taxis, vans and tractors. Only those who hold a license for light vehicles can apply for a badge and a license to drive heavy vehicles such as buses, trucks and lorries. “In this incident, Mr. Kumar may not have the required license and badge to drive heavy vehicles like buses. Consequently, the violation will be sanctioned,” a transport official said.

According to the norms, such violation by the driver will be fined ₹5,000 under the Motor Vehicles Act (MVA), 1988. The owner of the vehicle will be fined ₹10,000. Transport officials said necessary action would be taken based on the probe’s findings.

Published – 03 Oct 2026 23:20 IST