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Chennai, Nov 4 (IANS) In a fresh sign of growing factional tensions within the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), Salem West MLA R. Arul and his supporters – including the party’s founder Dr. S. Ramadoss – was allegedly attacked by loyalists of party president Anbumani Ramadoss in Salem district on Tuesday.
According to sources, the incident occurred when Arul was returning from Pethanaickanpalayam after visiting the PMK central secretary’s house along with local officials.
As his convoy approached Vazhapadi, a group of around 20 people allegedly pelted stones at the vehicles carrying Arul and his team.
In retaliation, his supporters also pelted stones at the rival group, creating a tense situation in the busy area.
Recalling the attack, Arul alleged that the attackers were supporters of Anbumani.
He said, “While returning to Salem, around 20 followers of Anbumani raised slogans in his support and attacked our car. They used stones, wooden logs and iron rods. If I had come out, they would have killed me.”
The MLA said the attack took place despite the presence of some police personnel at the scene, who tried to intervene.
Criticizing the party leadership, Arul questioned, “Anbumani keeps talking about civilized and developmental politics. Is this what he means by civilized politics?”
He said about 50 of his supporters were traveling in several vehicles, but he instructed them not to alight to prevent them from moving forward.
Five of his cadres were injured and admitted to Salem Government Hospital.
A police constable was also injured in stone pelting.
“We have lodged a complaint and we are confident that the police will take action and provide us security,” Arul said.
He further said that S. Both Ramdas and party’s honorary president GK Mani had called him after the incident to inquire about his well being.
He said, “We appeal to Anbumani not to mislead the youth like this. PMK is built on the ideals of justice and equality, not violence.”
Police have registered the case and are investigating the incident.
Security has been tightened in Salem after the clash between two groups of PMK.
–IANS
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