Collector V. Sampath has imposed a blanket ban on Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder S. Ramadoss, his son, Anbumani Ramadoss, other leaders of the party and Vanniyar Sangam and leaders of all other political parties, from entering into Marakkanam or other troubled spots in the district until further order.
The Collector, in his capacity as the District Magistrate, has issued the order by invoking the provisions under Section 144 (1) of the Criminal Procedure Code.
He has acted on the report of the Superintendent of Police S. Manoharan, and intelligence inputs warning that that untoward incidents could happen if party leaders, particularly the PMK, or leaders of any associations or organisations or any prominent persons visit Marakkanam or any other areas that witnessed violence.
In a four-page statement, Mr. Sampath said that Villupuram was a highly sensitive district as it had witnessed frequent caste-related clashes. The inflammatory speeches made by Dr. Ramadoss have created simmering animosity between the Vanniyars and Adi Dravidars.
The Collector has further stated that both Dr. Ramadoss and Mr. Anbumani Ramadoss were released on bail on May 9 and 11 respectively. “It is the apprehension of the district administration that if they choose to visit the problem areas, it might disrupt peace,” the Collector said explaining the reason behind imposing the order.
