Chennai, Oct 29:
DMK president and former Chief Minister M K Stalin has criticised the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam government over the law-and-order situation in Tamil Nadu, citing seven murders reported in Thoothukudi district in four days.
In a post on social media, Stalin referred to the murder of a woman, identified as Sasikala, who was allegedly hacked to death while alone at her house in Kandan Colony in Thoothukudi. Questioning the district police over the series of killings, he asked what explanation they would offer for seven murders within four days.
Stalin also questioned whether the government considered it an achievement to leave people afraid even to remain inside their homes. His remarks amounted to a sharp attack on the TVK administration over public safety and the police response to serious crimes.
According to reports, Sasikala was alone at her residence when an unidentified gang allegedly attacked her and escaped after the murder. She sustained severe cut injuries to her head and shoulder.
Her son reportedly returned home to find her dead and alerted the Thenthaagam police station. Police registered a case and began an investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Investigators are examining CCTV footage from the surrounding areas to establish the movements of the suspects and reconstruct the crime. The assailants were also suspected of taking a four-sovereign gold chain from the victim, raising the possibility of robbery as a motive. The motive and identities of the suspects remain subject to investigation.
Stalin’s criticism comes amid continuing political exchanges between the DMK and the TVK government over policing and public security. The opposition has sought accountability from the administration over violent crimes, while the government faces the task of ensuring effective investigation and preventing further incidents.
The reported murders have brought renewed attention to police patrols, crime prevention and the speed with which suspects are identified and arrested. The investigation into Sasikala’s murder is expected to focus on CCTV evidence, possible robbery and other leads.
The series of killings cited by Stalin has become a political issue, with the former Chief Minister demanding an explanation from the police and questioning the government’s handling of law and order.