Chennai, July 1 (IANS) A local functionary of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) was hacked to death by an unidentified gang near Tirumangalam in Madurai district on Wednesday, in yet another incident that has intensified concerns over the law and order situation in Tamil Nadu since the Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) government led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay assumed office.

The victim, identified as Kalanidhi, a resident of Iluppankulam village in Kallikudi taluk, was travelling on a two-wheeler with his associate Ajith when the attack took place.

According to police, the assailants, who were allegedly following them in a car, intercepted the motorcycle and attacked Kalanidhi with sickles before fleeing the scene.

Kalanidhi sustained multiple grievous cut injuries and died on the spot, while Ajith suffered serious injuries in the assault and was rushed to hospital, where he is undergoing treatment. Police personnel reached the scene soon after receiving information, recovered the body and sent it to the Virudhunagar Government Medical College Hospital for post-mortem examination.

A case has been registered, and special teams have been formed to identify and apprehend the attackers.

Investigators are examining various angles, including whether the murder was linked to previous enmity, political rivalry or any other personal motive.

Police officials said all possibilities are being explored and evidence from the crime scene, CCTV footage and witness statements are being analysed as part of the investigation.

The killing sparked protests by Kalanidhi’s relatives and local residents, who staged a road blockade outside the Virudhunagar Government Medical College Hospital demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible.

The demonstration disrupted traffic for some time before senior police officers held talks with the protesters and assured them that the accused would be traced and arrested at the earliest.

The protesters dispersed after receiving the assurance.

The murder has once again put the spotlight on law and order in the State.

Since the TVK government led by Chief Minister Vijay assumed office in May, the Opposition has repeatedly accused the administration of failing to curb violent crimes, pointing to a series of murders and attacks reported from different districts.

The government, however, has rejected the criticism, maintaining that the police have acted promptly in every major case and that stringent action is being taken against those involved in criminal activities.

Wednesday’s killing is expected to trigger fresh political exchanges over the State’s policing and public safety record.

–IANS

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