Tensions escalated outside a government hospital in Tamil Nadu’s Salem on Friday, 13 February 2026, after journalists were allegedly attacked by cadres of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) while covering the death of a man who collapsed during party chief Vijay’s political rally.
According to reporters present at the scene, TVK functionaries confronted members of the media when visuals of the incident and its aftermath were being recorded. Journalists alleged that cadres attempted to assault them and also tried to damage a television news vehicle parked outside the hospital premises.
The confrontation occurred after the body of a 37-year-old man, identified as Suraj, was brought to the hospital. Suraj, a native of Maharashtra, had been residing in Salem’s Sevvaipettai area where he worked in silver-related labour. He is survived by his wife and a child.
Police officials said Suraj had attended the public meeting organised for TVK administrators as a spectator. During the rally, he suddenly collapsed.
“During the event, he suddenly collapsed. He was rushed for medical assistance, but was declared dead, reportedly due to a heart attack. Police are conducting further inquiries into the incident,” police said.
The incident has drawn added attention as it comes months after a stampede at a political rally addressed by Vijay in Karur reportedly claimed over 40 lives.
Even as the death triggered concern, the situation outside the hospital turned volatile with the reported scuffle between media personnel and party cadres, prompting police presence to prevent further escalation.
No official statement had been released by TVK regarding the alleged attack on journalists at the time of reporting.
#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Visuals from outside the hospital, in Salem, where a scuffle broke out between some journalists and TVK cadres. The journalists alleged that the cadres tried to attack them. More details awaited.
A 37-year-old man from Maharashtra, identified as Suraj, died… pic.twitter.com/8Adf8VxHmN
— ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2026
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