Chennai: Tension prevailed in a meeting attended by Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) general secretary Vaiko after cadres of Naam Thamizhar Katchi attempted to gherao the MDMK leader in Usilampatti near Madurai on Tuesday. Police prevented the Naam Thamizhar Katchi (NMK) candidates from reaching Vaiko, who made a veiled attack on NMK leader Seeman at the meeting.
While kickstarting second leg of his 10-day padayatra to Cumbum to create awareness against the proposed neutrino observatory (INO) project at Usilampatti in the morning, Vaiko offered his respects to the memorial of 16 freedom fighters, who waged war against Britishers.
Without referring to the name of NMK leader Seeman, Vaiko said some persons were claiming that “I am a Telugu and not a Tamilian.” Regarding this, messages had been widely circulated on social media. He said those responsible for such attack and mud-slinging would face severe action.
Immediately, NMK cadres, who assembled near the place, raised slogans against Vaiko for speaking against their leader. They also attempted to gherao and prevent him from entering his car.
Immediately, police intervened in the scuffle and prevented NMK cadres from getting close to Vaiko. Later, Vaiko left the place in his car and continued his padayatra.
