Man Killed Trying to Stop Fight at Trichy Pongal Event
A tragic incident unfolded during Kaanum Pongal celebrations near Trichy on Saturday. A 38-year-old man lost his life after he tried to intervene in a violent argument between two groups.
Victim Identified as Daily Wage Labourer
The victim was M Karthik Raja, a daily wage labourer from Devanurpudur village in Thathaiyangarpettai block of Trichy district. Karthik had gone to watch traditional games organised for Kaanum Pongal, including a pole-climbing competition.
Argument Escalates to Deadly Attack
During the sports event, a heated argument broke out between two groups. The situation quickly escalated into a physical clash. Witnesses say Karthik attempted to intervene and pacify both sides. That's when one of the suspects allegedly attacked him.
Police reports indicate that M Sakthivel, aged 28, pulled out a knife and stabbed Karthik. The victim collapsed on the spot with severe injuries. He was immediately rushed to Namakkal Government Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.
Family Members Stage Protest
On Sunday, Karthik's wife Meena and other family members staged a protest near the hospital mortuary. They demanded the immediate arrest of all those involved in the killing. Police officials later informed the family that the accused had already been taken into custody. Following this assurance, the protest was withdrawn.
Police Action and Investigation
Thathaiyangarpettai police registered a case under Section 103 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). They arrested two suspects:
- M Sakthivel (28), the alleged main attacker
- M Dinesh Kumar (19), another accused in the case
Both accused were produced before a court and remanded to judicial custody at Trichy Central Prison. After completing the post-mortem examination, the body was handed over to Karthik's family for final rites. Police confirm that further investigation is currently underway.
This violent incident has cast a shadow over what should have been joyful Kaanum Pongal celebrations in the Trichy region. The community remains shocked by the sudden loss of a man who was simply trying to prevent violence.
