Tension at Nellithope following protest by Periyarist outfits against NTK chief Seeman

Tension in Nellithope as Periyarist groups protest against Seeman for disrespectful comments on Periyar, leading to police intervention.

Tension prevailed at Nellithope after a protest by Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam and other Periyarist organisations against Naam Tamilar Katchi chief coordinator Seeman for making certain disrespectful comments against Dravidar Kazhagam founder ‘Periyar’ E.V. Ramasamy when he spoke recently in Cuddalore.

Several volunteers belonging to Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam and other outfits gathered near Nellithope signal on Thursday morning to stage a protest against Mr. Seeman when he arrived here for a NTK function. The volunteers were planning to seek clarification and proof from Mr. Seeman for the remarks he made against Periyar.

However, police prevented them from going near the marriage hall where the NTK chief was scheduled to address the party cadre. Meanwhile, NTK workers also gathered near the venue and raised slogans in support of Mr. Seeman. Though the members of Tamil outfits and NTK almost came close, clashes were prevented. Police averted trouble as they succeeded in persuading the protesters to leave the area.

Later talking to reporters, Mr. Seeman said that he had proof for whatever he spoke with respect to the views of Periyar. The NTK chief questioned the silence of Periyarists on the Anna University sexual assault incident. “The victim of the sexual assault is a Tamil girl but none of these outfits have expressed concern about the crime,” Mr. Seeman said.