People waving ‘token’ `20 notes in protest against TTV Dhinakaran MLA for not distributing money as allegedly promised during the by-election campaign, at his local office in RK Nagar on Wednesday | Express
CHENNAI: Tension prevailed at RK Nagar on Wednesday as supporters of AIADMK leader E Madhusudhanan and constituency MLA TTV Dhinakaran clashed when the latter visited the MLA’s office.
Stones and slippers were pelted at Dhinakaran’s car as a crowd tried to gherao his car and waived `20 currency notes at him. Police personnel had a tough time convincing both the sides and a woman police officer suffered a blow on her head in the melee.
“When Dhinakaran’s car was nearing the MLA office, supporters of AIADMK party member Madhusudhanan raised slogans against the MLA demanding the bribe money he promised to voters during the by-election for the constituency,” said a police officer. As a stone was pelted at Dhinakaran’s car, his supporters picked an argument with Madhusudhanan’s supporters and it turned violent with both sides hurling slippers and stones.
“We had to lathi-charge to disperse the crowd,” the officer said. Around 12.30 pm, Dhinakaran distributed sewing machines to the residents of the constituency. Speaking to reporters, he said, “I can’t be afraid of stone pelters and avoid visiting my constituency. Those who indulged in violence are Madhusudhanan’s supporters. Not the members of the public in the constituency,” he alleged. Police said no FIR had been registered.
‘Token’ money returns to haunt politicians
Dhinakaran had won the RK Nagar byelection by a margin of 40,707 votes, defeating his nearest rival E Madhusudhanan of AIADMK. Several parties including the Opposition DMK had termed the results as “victory of money power”. Also, there were reports that `20 currency notes which could be later encashed outside RK Nagar, were distributed to voters.
