Annamalai criticizes DMK over women’s safety after ECR incident

BJP state president K Annamalai on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on the ruling DMK government, accusing it of failing to ensure women’s safety in Tamil Nadu. His remarks come in response to a recent incident on Chennai’s East Coast Road (ECR), where a group of youths allegedly blocked a car carrying women and engaged in a physical altercation.

Addressing reporters in Chetpet, Annamalai expressed deep concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. “The heart-wrenching scenes of women being harassed and intimidated in Chennai’s ECR area highlight the DMK government’s inability to provide a safe environment for women,” he said.

Annamalai, who resides in the ECR area, pointed out that inadequate police security has left women and youth feeling unsafe, particularly during the evenings and nights. “The police presence is woefully inadequate, creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity,” he observed. He further emphasized that the issue extends beyond nighttime, affecting women’s safety throughout the day and across the state.

The BJP leader urged the DMK government to take immediate and concrete steps to enhance women’s security. He demanded an increase in the number of police stations, patrol vehicles, and two-wheelers to ensure effective law enforcement.

In a sharp rebuke of the ruling party, Annamalai alleged that despite DMK’s claims of championing women’s rights, it has not allocated sufficient funds to prevent crimes against women. “The DMK government has not even spared a penny for women’s safety,” he remarked.

He also criticized the police for their handling of the Anna University sexual assault case, accusing them of intimidating journalists by checking their phones and asking unnecessary questions. “This is a high-handed and foolish approach that reeks of harassment,” he noted.

Additionally, Annamalai questioned the DMK government’s decision to transport people from Arittapatti in 92 government buses for a function. “Is this a commendation ceremony or just a way to waste public money by offering Rs 300 per person to attend?” he asked, calling it an example of the government’s reckless spending on unnecessary events.

Annamalai concluded his statement by reiterating his demand for immediate action to improve women’s safety and urging the DMK regime to prioritize public welfare over political theatrics.