The Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) has filed a petition in the Madras High Court against the Chennai Police Commissioner, A Arun, questioning the decision to grant permission exclusively to Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) members for protests against Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, alleging a violation of established rules.
On 2 January 2025, the PMK women’s wing, led by Soumiya Anbumani, attempted to stage a protest at Valluvar Kottam against the sexual assault of a student at Anna University. The Chennai police denied them permission, citing the absence of an application submitted five days in advance. The protesters were subsequently arrested.
In response, the PMK sought relief from the High Court. However, the judge dismissed the appeal and admonished all political parties against politicizing sensitive issues.
DMK Protest Granted Immediate Permission
In contrast, the DMK announced a statewide protest on the evening of 6 January 2025, set to take place the following morning (7 January 2025), condemning TN Governor R.N. Ravi. Despite the short notice, the Chennai police granted permission for the protest, allegedly bypassing the five-day rule. This decision enabled DMK members, including prominent leaders Kanimozhi, Dayanidhi Maran, and R.S. Bharathi, to participate in demonstrations across the state, including one at Saidapet, which reportedly caused significant traffic congestion.
Legal Action By PMK
The PMK’s legal counsel, K. Balu, challenged the police’s actions in the High Court, accusing them of partiality. “The police violated their own rules by granting immediate permission to the DMK while consistently denying opposition parties the same right,” he argued. Balu demanded action against the Chennai Metropolitan Police Commissioner and other officials involved.
High Court Judge P Velmurugan stated that if the petition is filed and numbered, it will be heard on Wednesday.
Subsequently, PMK propaganda secretary PK Sekar filed another petition targeting senior officials, including the Chief Secretary to the Tamil Nadu government, the Tamil Nadu DGP, the Chennai Metropolitan Police Commissioner, and the Saidapet Police Inspector. The petition emphasized the disparity in permissions granted and highlighted the DMK’s exemption from the five-day application requirement.
“The DMK’s protest caused severe traffic congestion and contravened police regulations. Action must be taken against the officials responsible for this bias,” the petition stated.
The High Court is expected to hear the PMK’s petitions on 8 January 2025.
(With inputs from Hindu Tamil)
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