TNPDCL hard disk theft: Data backup initiated, probe under way, says Minister Nirmalkumar

Following the theft of several hard disks from the headquarters of the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) on Anna Salai in Chennai, Minister for Energy Resources and Law R. Nirmalkumar on Thursday (June 4, 2026) said instructions had been issued to ensure the safe custody of all files and to take backup copies of data stored in computers.

Speaking to journalists at the Secretariat, Mr. Nirmalkumar said several hard disks had been reported missing from the TNPDCL headquarters last month. Following a preliminary departmental vigilance inquiry that confirmed the theft of storage devices, a complaint was lodged with the police.

He said some persons had been secured during the police investigation and efforts were in progress to arrest a few others. An investigation was under way to ascertain the motive behind the theft, he said, adding that he did not wish to comment further on the issue at this stage.

‘Action being taken’

He said the process of backing up data related to tenders issued over the past five years, coal contracts, and contract employee-related records stored in computers had commenced. The validation process was expected to be completed within a few days.

The Minister said all related information regarding the alleged scam in transformer procurement had already been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with an ongoing case.

Certain persons had also been placed under suspension in connection with the matter. “There is suspicion that these thefts may have taken place as a continuation of those developments,” he said.

When asked about the number of hard disks missing, the Minister said hard disks from important departments had been stolen. However, he said the enumeration process was still under way and an exact figure could not be provided at this juncture.

The Minister said preliminary inquiries had revealed the possible involvement of employees working within the department. Further investigation was under way. Strict legal action would be taken against those responsible, he added.