During the run up to the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, MK Stalin in a campaign propaganda video said “Law & Order would be under my direct control. Those who do wrong, I am saying again, those who do wrong will be punished“. Contradicting to the words, ever since the ascension of DMK to power, Tamil Nadu has witnessed a disturbing trend of brutal murders, often driven by caste or political motives. These incidents have drawn strong criticism from politicians and the public alike, highlighting perceived failures in the DMK government’s management of law and order in the state
In this context, Ananda Vikatan has published a critique of the ruling DMK government, highlighting recent incidents that demonstrate a worsening decline in law and order in Tamil Nadu.
Sandeeprai Rathore, who has recently been transferred from his position as Chennai City Police Commissioner, took pride by stating that the National Crime Records Bureau report states that Chennai is the safest city for women in the country. He also highlighted a significant drop in murder rates during the press meet of BSP leader Armstrong’s murder case, noting that there were 69 murders between January and June 2023, compared to just 58 murders in the same period this year. These figures suggest a decline in violent crime in the city.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Stalin also commended the police for their swift action, pointing out that those involved in the murder of Bahujan Samaj Party Tamil Nadu President Armstrong were apprehended on the same night as the crime.
The influence of mercenaries has expanded throughout Tamil Nadu without any formal advertising that there is no need to file a police complaint for issues related to money or property, nor do you have to wait for a court decision. Simply approach us, and we will handle the matter and provide an immediate resolution. In this environment, even trivial disputes can escalate to violence. As the mercenary presence has increased, the cost of human life has surprisingly decreased. However, violent and deadly gangs armed with weapons now roam the streets, creating a deeply troubling trend. The situation is alarming, especially given recent high-profile murders, including the killings of Congress Party’s Tirunelveli East District President Jayakumar, PMK’s Shankar in Cuddalore, and ADMK leader Shanmugam in Salem by unknown assailants.
The ability of mercenaries to target political figures raises serious questions about the safety of ordinary citizens. This issue cannot be overlooked by the current government. The spread of drugs is closely linked to the rise in mercenary violence. While the government may not fully grasp this connection, the public is acutely aware of it. This fear is evident in the way people avoid confrontation with reckless drivers, suspecting they might be under the influence of drugs or affiliated with mercenaries.
Since the DMK government assumed power, there has been a noticeable deterioration in law and order, with drug-fueled mercenaries exerting control. The public is skeptical about Chief Minister Stalin’s optimism for 2026, viewing it as unrealistic in the face of growing crime. Immediate and effective measures are necessary to combat drug trafficking and mercenary violence, or else ‘Peace Park’ will remain nothing more than a symbolic phrase.
(With inputs from Ananda Vikatan)
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.