Withdraw Section 144, Stalin demands of O Paneerselvam

“MLA J Anbazhagan and I met people of Nadukuppam and consoled them, as they were at the receiving end of pro-jallikattu protests held on the Marina. The Chief Minister said that there were some anti-social elements that infiltrated in the peaceful protests to sabotage Republic Day celebrations, wherein the DCP of Mylapore has denied any such incident through the media,” Stalin said and asked for a clarification. To the question, Panneerselvam replied that the government had not received any official communication with regard to the DCP’s speech. 

“However, we will enquire into this and necessary action will be taken, if it is true,” he said. Later, the LoP demanded for withdrawing section 144 that was clamped down in some areas two days back. “Marina Beach is a landmark of the world and hundreds of people arrive at this place in a day. Under this circumstance, imposing section 144 will affect tourists and public, to a large extent. So, the government should lift section 144,” Stalin said.

Deputy Leader of the Opposition S Duraimurugan blamed the government for not taking proper control measures to restrict swine flu cases, which took four lives and demanded the health department to keep an eye on this serious issue in Vellore district. Health Minister C Vijaya Baskar responded that he along with top health officials visited the areas, when fever cases were reported. “We found that only one person contracted H1N1 and died in Vellore district. However, all other patients have not been affected by the dreadful virus,” he clarified and added that situation was under control and a detailed report would be submitted soon.

The state assembly was adjourned for 30 minutes for paying homage to the soldiers, who died in an avalanche at Jammu and Kashmir.  Earlier, the MLAs paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary and took pledge of eradication of untouchability.

Kangeyam MLA Thaniarasu demanding a statue for the Kangeyam bull inadvertently created ripples of laughter in the Assembly. “The Kangeyam bulls are the most beautiful bulls and their milk was better than mother’s milk,” he said without thinking how the bull will give milk. In a serious vein he demanded general pardon for those accused in the Rajiv Gandhi murder case on the occasion of MGR’s birth centenary celebrations.