K Annamalai Detained In Coimbatore Protest Over DMK’s Terrorist Glorification | Watch Video

Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai was detained by the police in Coimbatore while leading a party protest against the ruling DMK-led state government.

The protest stemmed from allegations of "glorifying a terrorist responsible for the tragic loss of 58 lives" in the 1998 Coimbatore bomb blasts. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organized a "Black Day Procession" in Coimbatore on Friday, condemning the state's approval for the funeral procession of SA Basha, a convicted terrorist linked to the 1998 Coimbatore bomb blasts.

The rally, led by BJP Tamil Nadu President K Annamalai and supported by various Hindu organizations, demanded accountability from the government for allegedly glorifying individuals responsible for the loss of 58 lives in the deadly terror attack.

Photo Credit: PTI

Allegations Against the DMK Government

The BJP accused the DMK of honouring individuals allegedly linked to the terror attack, a move that has sparked outrage among party members.

Addressing the protesters before his detention, Annamalai stated, "This is a peace-loving city that suffered a devastating attack in 1998. To glorify a terrorist is an insult to the victims and their families. We demand accountability from the state government."

Police Action Amid Rising Tensions

The protest gathered significant crowds, leading to heightened tensions in the area.

As the situation escalated, law enforcement intervened, detaining Annamalai and several other BJP workers to prevent further disruption.

Authorities cited the need to maintain public order and avoid potential clashes.

Political Repercussions

This incident adds to the growing friction between the BJP and the DMK in Tamil Nadu. The BJP has been vocal in its criticism of the DMK's policies, accusing the state government of compromising national security.

Annamalai's X Post

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, he wrote," The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has condemned the Tamil Nadu government's actions for arresting party leaders and cadres who participated in a rally against the glorification of a terrorist responsible for the 1998 Coimbatore bomb blasts that claimed 58 lives."

The protest, led by BJP Tamil Nadu President K Annamalai, was aimed at criticizing the DMK government for granting permission for the funeral procession of SA Basha, a convicted terrorist involved in the attack.

Notably, the 1998 Coimbatore bombings were a series of coordinated attacks that claimed 58 lives and injured over 200 people. The blasts were orchestrated to disrupt an event attended by senior BJP leader L.K. Advani, marking one of the most traumatic episodes in the city's history.

BJP's Call for Justice

Following the detention, the BJP announced its intention to intensify protests across the state. The party emphasized that its campaign is not only about holding the government accountable but also about honouring the memory of the victims.

The detention of Annamalai is expected to add fuel to the ongoing political rivalry in Tamil Nadu, with both parties sharpening their narratives ahead of future electoral battles.

The BJP's procession took place after the Tamil Nadu government granted police protection for the funeral of SA Basha, the founder of the banned Al-Umma group. Basha had been convicted in the 1998 Coimbatore bomb blasts and died of age-related health issues while on parole.

His burial, which was permitted with government support, ignited fierce criticism from Hindu outfits and BJP leaders, who accused the state government of endorsing terrorism. During the protest, BJP workers carried banners accusing the government of supporting "Coimbatore bomb blast terrorists." Hindu organizations like Hindu Munnani also participated in the rally, underscoring the growing tension over the state's handling of sensitive issues related to terrorism.

Annamalai and BJP Leaders Detained

Despite the widespread participation, the police did not grant permission for the rally, leading to the detention of K Annamalai and other BJP leaders. Annamalai, along with other party members, was taken into custody during the procession. In response, Annamalai tweeted, condemning the police action and the government's stance.

"The DMK government should understand that the cadres of BJP Tamil Nadu will never bow down to such autocracy and will always be the voice of the people of Tamil Nadu," Annamalai stated, reaffirming the BJP's position in this heated political battle.

BJP Seeks Cancellation of Pasha's Funeral Permission

On December 17, Coimbatore District BJP President Ramesh Kumar, alongside representatives from various Hindu organizations, submitted a formal petition to the Coimbatore City Police Commissioner. The petition called for the cancellation of permission for the funeral procession of Pasha, the convict involved in the Coimbatore serial blasts. Addressing the media, Kumar strongly stated that allowing the procession would signal the collapse of law and order in the city. In response, the BJP announced plans to observe a day of mourning on Friday to highlight the "death of law and order" in Coimbatore.