DMK, AIADMK men clash: Police fire tear gas shells

Theni, Tamil Nadu, Nov 13 (UNI) Police today fired tear gas shells to disperse clashing DMK and AIADMK supporters at Andipatti following non-conduct of the scheduled election for Panchayat Union Chairman.

Police resorted to tear gas as caning did not quell the mob.

The car of the Police Superintendent and a State-owned bus were damaged.

Over 50 AIADMK supporters and functionaries, including party Rajya Sabha MP Thanga Thamizhselvan were detained for resorting to road roko protesting against the administration failing to hold the poll.

All 19 councillors elected in the recent civic poll came for the election earlier in the day. Following is the party position: AIADMK 6, MDMK 2, DMK 7 and Independents 2. The AIADMK, with support from MDMK and independents, had fielded an independent, Malarvizhi.

On the the directions of the High Court, heavy police security was deployed in and around the venue. Only elected members were allowed entry.

Trouble started when the car of Theni District DMK Secretary Mookaiah, accompanied by elected party councilors, gained entry.

AIADMK supporters rushed in, breaking barricades, following rumours that the returning officers would be abducted to foil the election.

Both the Returning Officer and his deputy went on leave, forcing abandonment of the election.

Enraged AIADMK supporters, led by Thamizhselvan, resorted to a road blockade demanding holding of the election. A clash ensued between the rival groups forcing police to intervene to bring order.

Earlier, the Madurai Bench of Madras High Court ordered adequate police protection for holding the election.

Meanwhile, reports said the Municipal Chairman election in nearby Sivaganga could also not be held.

However, the DMK romped home in Madurai East Panchayat Union.

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