TIRUCHY: Security arrangements have been intensified in Tiruchy and Pudukkottai ahead of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s two-day whirlwind tour on Sunday and Monday, during which he is expected to sharpen the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA's) lineup for the Assembly elections, participate in Pongal celebrations and visit the Sri Rangam temple.

On Sunday, Shah will address the valedictory of Tamilagam Thalai Nimira Tamilanin Payanam, a campaign rally led by State BJP president Nainar Nagenthran, at Karuveppilai Gate in Pudukkottai. He will later proceed to Tiruchy in the evening to attend the BJP state core group meeting.

On Monday, the Home Minister is scheduled to visit the Srirangam Sri Ranganatha Swamy temple around 9.30 am. He will subsequently take part in Pongal celebrations at the Mannarpuram defence land, where 1,008 women BJP cadre are expected to prepare Pongal around 11.30 am.

In view of the visit, police have stepped up security across both districts and diverted traffic along the convoy routes. BJP functionaries are making final arrangements at the venues in Pudukkottai and Tiruchy.