An annual tradition at the Christ the King Church in Gangavalli, Salem District, the chariot festival, usually held in November, faced an unexpected disruption this year. The festival, which began with the hoisting of the flag on 17 November 2024, includes a procession with three chariots — Christ the King, Saint Nickel, and Arogya mata — parading along the Thiruveethi Ula.
However, tensions arose between two groups involved in the festival over the handling and placement of idols in the chariots, which were arranged in three mini-cargo vans. The disagreement escalated, prompting local police to step in and deny permission for the procession to proceed along the designated route.
A negotiation led by Attur DSP Sathishkumar and other officers was initiated to resolve the issue. After discussions between the conflicting parties, it was agreed that the festival should proceed peacefully.
Despite the resolution, the chariot procession did not take place, as the idols were not placed in the chariots. To maintain order, over 20 police officers were stationed at the Christ the King Church complex, ensuring security throughout the event.
ஆரோக்கிய மாதா சிலையை தேரில் வைப்பது தொடர்பாக போலீசார் முன்பிலே இருதரப்பினரிடையே மோதல்.. பாதியில் நிறுத்தப்பட்ட தேர்த்திருவிழா..#Salem | #Church | #Police | #Attack | #PolimerNews pic.twitter.com/XOHFf7d83F
— Polimer News (@polimernews) November 25, 2024
(With inputs from Dinamalar)
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