Eight injured in clash at temple festival in Tiruvannamalai

The incident occurred during Kaanum Pongal celebration arrangements at the Koothandavar temple at Karungali kuppam village, the police said. When the temple deities were being decorated, an argument erupted between Narayanasamy (38) of the village and Ambeth Valavan (45)-also from the same locality.

Narayanasamy soon attacked Ambeth Valavan, and as a result, the latter’s friends broke the figurines of the deities and then indulged in stone-pelting, resulting in damage to two cars and five two-wheelers and a few thatched houses, sources said.

Ambeth Valavan’s supporters also allegedly hurled petrol bombs at Narayanasamy’s house. The fire was, however, put out by the local services personnel who were on duty for the temple festival.

A total of eight persons suffered injuries in the incident, including Narayanasamy’s wife Anjalai (35), father Ganesan (70) and relatives. They were admitted to the Tiruvannamalai government medical college hospital while nearly 150 police personnel rushed to the spot to ensure communal harmony, sources said.

Demanding action against the rival group who damaged their houses, Narayanasamy’s relatives then on Saturday blocked the Kil Pennathur – Vettavalam road.

Traffic was restored when the crowd dispersed following the police assuring them of prompt action.