In a significant development, the Erode district police have officially refused permission for a major public rally planned by the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) on December 16. The event, which was slated to be held near Perundurai in Erode, was denied clearance primarily due to concerns over inadequate space to safely accommodate the massive crowd projected by the party.
Police Cite Logistical Hurdles
The police authorities communicated their decision to TVK chief coordinator K A Sengottaiyan, pointing to a critical logistical shortfall. According to the petition submitted by Sengottaiyan earlier in the day to District Collector S Kandasamy and Superintendent of Police Sujatha, the party expected a turnout of at least 75,000 party cadres for the conference at Pavalathampalayam.
However, after a thorough assessment, the police concluded that the chosen seven-acre site would be insufficient. "The seven acres of land they have chosen for the conference will not be suitable for 75,000 cadres," stated the police. They elaborated that after accounting for the space required for erecting a stage and allocating areas for vehicle parking, the venue could only safely accommodate approximately 30,000 people. Citing this stark discrepancy, SP Sujatha formally requested Sengottaiyan to identify an alternative location for the large-scale gathering.
TVK Scrambles for an Alternative Venue
Following the police's refusal, K A Sengottaiyan, along with other TVK administrators, promptly conducted an inspection of another potential site near Perundurai. The party has stated that it will approach the police again after finalizing this alternative location.
After submitting the initial petition, Sengottaiyan addressed reporters, indicating that preparatory work for the conference would commence immediately upon receiving the necessary permissions. He also clarified that TVK did not seek permission for a roadshow, only for the static public meeting.
Political Speculations and Denials
The press interaction also veered into broader political speculation. When questioned about TVK founder and actor Vijay's recent meeting with Praveen Chakravarthy, the chairman of the All India Professional Congress, Sengottaiyan deflected, suggesting that the question should be directed to Vijay himself.
He further added an element of anticipation, asking reporters to "wait and see" if any leaders from the AIADMK were likely to join TVK during the upcoming conference. Sengottaiyan also took the opportunity to firmly deny allegations that he had imposed any special conditions when he joined the party, dismissing such claims as baseless.
The search for a suitable venue continues as TVK aims to mobilize its significant cadre base for the December 16 event, with all eyes now on the party's next formal application to the Erode police.
