IT raids on Vijaykant: CM's effigies burnt,lathicharge in city

Chennai, Jan 23 (UNI) Income Tax raids on actor-politician Vijaykanth and his sister today sparked of protests by workers of his Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK).

DMDK activists burnt in effigy Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. Police resorted to lathicharge to disperse the mob.

Officials of the income tax department conducted the raids at five premises in and around the city and at the premises of the actor's sister, a doctor by profession in Madurai.

The irate volunteers damaged two IT department cars and a police vehicle which was parked outside the actor's house and a few other vehicles passing by pelting stones. They also deflated the tyres.

The also shouted slogans against Mr Karunanidhi and the IT department, police said.

Despite repeated warnings, the crowd instead of dispersing, indulged in violence. Police had to resort to lathicharge to control the situation.

About 150 volunteers were taken into custody in connection with the protests in the city.

A report from Coimbatore said about 200 DMDK workers were arrested this evening when they were agitating at Gandhipuram.

As many as 140 protesters were arrested from Villupuram when they tried to put up road blockade. Another 18 activists were arrested at Thiyagardugam near Kallakurichi.

UNI