In a significant development from Trichy, opposition leaders across Tamil Nadu launched a fierce attack on the ruling DMK government on Wednesday. This came after a purported video showing Srirangam MLA M Palaniyandi allegedly assaulting a journalist went viral across various social media platforms.
Viral Video Sparks Political Firestorm
The controversial footage reportedly captures the MLA attacking a journalist who was attempting to shoot video footage of a quarry owned by Palaniyandi in Karur district. The incident has triggered widespread condemnation and raised serious questions about press freedom and political accountability in the state.
Opposition Leaders Voice Strong Criticism
Several prominent opposition figures were quick to respond to the viral video. TVK chief Vijay, BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran, and PMK's Anbumani Ramadoss were among those who expressed their outrage at the alleged incident.
In a strongly worded post on X, TVK chief Vijay stated, "It is shameful that even after this, the chief minister is merely watching without registering a case against him or making any arrest." He further added a political warning, saying, "People will surely overthrow this government in the upcoming assembly election."
Police Investigation and Conflicting Accounts
While CSR (Community Service Register) entries have been filed on January 30 based on complaints from both parties involved, the Karur SP office sources confirmed they are actively investigating the matter. "We have seen the video and a thorough inquiry is underway. All necessary action will be taken," a police source stated.
Attempts to reach SP Josh Thangiah for direct comment proved unsuccessful. Interestingly, while police had issued a statement claiming the journalists were not abducted, the journalists themselves have alleged they were kidnapped and assaulted during the incident.
Broader Concerns About Law and Order
Speaking to reporters in Salem, BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran expressed little surprise that police had not even filed a FIR in the case. "As far as DMK goes, one functionary even said he would kill the Prime Minister, but no action was taken. In the DMK government, journalists are not safe," he remarked, highlighting what he sees as a pattern of inaction.
PMK's Anbumani Ramadoss raised pointed questions about the delayed response, asking in his X post, "Does being a DMK member grant one the right to commit all illegal acts?" He specifically questioned why there had been a delay in arresting the MLA involved in the alleged assault.
Allegations of Cover-Up Attempt
Adding to the controversy, former BJP state president K Annamalai cited a press release issued by Karur police on January 30, suggesting it represented an attempt to cover up the incident rather than address it transparently.
The incident has escalated into a major political issue in Tamil Nadu, with opposition parties using it to question the DMK government's commitment to law and order, press freedom, and equal application of justice. As investigations continue, all eyes remain on how the state government and police authorities will handle this sensitive case involving a sitting MLA and allegations of violence against journalists.
