EPS warning sparks backlash

The incident took place late on Monday night, around 10:30 PM, when EPS was addressing a large gathering near an MGR statue in Vellore as part of his “We Will Save the People, We Will Redeem Tamil Nadu” tour. During his speech, a ‘108’ emergency ambulance attempted to pass through the crowd.

Irritated by the interruption, EPS accused the ruling DMK government of deliberately deploying ambulances without patients to disrupt his meetings. He further claimed that similar incidents had occurred in as many as 30 of his past rallies. Escalating his attack, he warned: “If it happens again in my next meeting, the ambulance driver will himself become the patient.”

Ambulance driver’s clarification

Following the incident, the ambulance driver clarified that he had been transporting a woman patient to a nearby hospital and was not acting on political instructions. He further alleged that some AIADMK cadres told him the meeting was over, but when he drove through, they attacked him and damaged his vehicle.

Condemnation from Association

The Tamil Nadu Private Ambulance Drivers and Owners Association strongly condemned EPS’s remarks, describing them as “disrespectful” and “insulting” to frontline workers who risk their lives to save patients. The association warned that if EPS does not issue a public apology, they will organise a statewide protest.

Government response

Health Minister Ma. Subramanian also lashed out at EPS, saying such threats demean the vital services of ambulance drivers. “Ambulance workers perform life-saving duties round the clock. Threatening them for political gain is highly condemnable,” the minister said.

Political impact

The controversy has now turned into a full-fledged political row. While AIADMK cadres stood by their leader, claiming his frustration stemmed from repeated “deliberate disruptions,” critics argue that EPS’s words show insensitivity and a lack of respect for healthcare workers.