The family members of late Sasi Perumal, including his two sons, were taken into custody, in Siddhar Kovil village near Salem on Friday morning when they attempted to observe a relay fast to press for total prohibition in the State.
Sasi Perumal’s two sons S. Vivek and S. Navaneethan, along with Sais Perumal’s brothers K. Venkatachalam, K. Selvam and his son S. Raja commenced a fast at his memorial in the chambers of the house in E. Mettukkadu village at 6 a.m. Two hours later, they proceeded to Siddhar Kovil village and attempted to continue the fast in front of the Gandhi statue. Magudanchavadi Police rushed to the spot and arrested all five for observing fast without police permission. Sasi Perumal’s family had sought police permission, but was refused.
Meanwhile, Mr. Selvam told presspersons at Siddhar Kovil that all five would continue the relay fast even in custody. He said that the fast would be continued till the assembly session is over. He urged the government to make an announcement on the introduction of total prohibition in the State during the current assembly session and also take steps for the closure of liquor shops in a phased manner within six months.
