Cops arrest activist who raised issues over encroachment

CHENNAI: An activist who has been raising issues over encroachments was arrested by Central Crime Branch, based on a complaint from a PMK functionary on Thursday. Nakkeeran Pugazhendhi, treasurer of Arappor Iyakkam, an NGO, was arrested from his home at 4.30 am and taken to Central Crime Branch before being produced before Judicial Magistrate, Poonamallee and remanded in Puzhal Prison.

According to the complainant, Kumar, he was assaulted and abused with derogatory remarks by Nakkeeran on October 28 when the NGO organised a public meeting at Ramapuram. Following the complaint, the police booked Nakkeeran on the charges of unlawful assembly, rioting and assault.

Arappor Iyakkam has a different version of the incidents. According to the activists of the organisation, following their meeting at Ramapuram, they were assaulted by about 20 men belonging to PMK. The NGO members alleged that Nakkeeran was targeted for raising the issue of a temple constructed by PMK members, encroaching on public space.

About the temple issue, the Greater Chennai Corporation stated in April 2017 that the construction was ‘illegal’ and that lock and seal notices had been issued, in response to Nakkeeran’s RTI petition. State body member of Arappor Iyakkam, Chandramohan questioned why Central Crime Branch was involved in a case which is normally handled by the local police.

Arappor Iyakkam version

The NGO members alleged that Nakkeeran was targeted for raising the issue of a temple built by PMK members, encroaching on the public space.