Family of Deceased Worker Demands Financial Aid from TVK Leader Vijay in Salem
The family of Suraj, a 37-year-old guest worker from Maharashtra, has declared they will not accept his body until TVK leader Vijay provides financial assistance. This decision follows Suraj's tragic collapse and death during a TVK executive meeting held on Friday in Salem district. The family's stance highlights their grief and the perceived lack of support from the political party.
Details of the Incident at the TVK Meeting
A meeting of TVK executives was organized at a private ground on the Seelanaickkanpatty bypass road in Salem. Approximately 5,000 executives from 11 assembly constituencies were invited to participate in the event. During the proceedings, Vijay addressed the crowd from a campaign van. It was at this moment that Suraj suffered a seizure and fainted, prompting immediate action from the medical team present.
First aid was administered on-site, but as Suraj's condition remained critical, he was rushed to a nearby private hospital. Tragically, he passed away en route. The Annadhanapatty police, upon receiving information, arrived at the scene to investigate. They identified Suraj as a resident of Salem for the past 20 years, originally from Maharashtra, who worked as a laborer in a silver workshop.
Family's Grievances and Demands
Suraj is survived by his wife Priyanka, aged 32, a 10-year-old daughter, and a 5-year-old son. His body was taken to the Salem Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College and Hospital, where an autopsy has been completed. The family and relatives expressed shock and disappointment over the absence of TVK leaders who failed to console them during this difficult time.
Lakshmanan, Suraj's maternal uncle, emphasized the family's plight, stating, "Suraj was a wage laborer and the sole provider for our family. His death has left us in deep sorrow. We will not accept the body until Vijay offers financial assistance to support Suraj's family." He further noted that no representatives from TVK had visited to offer condolences, leaving the family feeling neglected at the hospital.
Controversy and Social Media Response
Friends and relatives contested claims made by TVK, which suggested Suraj had a pre-existing heart condition. They asserted he had no such health issues, adding to their frustration over the party's handling of the situation. On social media, TVK Joint General Secretary Nirmal Kumar addressed the incident, explaining that Suraj fainted suddenly due to illness during the meeting.
Nirmal Kumar stated, "First aid was provided immediately, and our administrators ensured he was taken to the hospital promptly. It is unfortunate that Suraj succumbed to a heart attack. We extend our deepest condolences for this unexpected loss." However, this statement has done little to alleviate the family's demands for tangible support, keeping the issue in the spotlight as they await a resolution.
