Karunanidhi Funeral: 2 killed, several injured after scuffle breaks out between police and crowd outside Rajaji Hall; burial at 4 pm
Karunanidhi Funeral: 2 killed, several injured after scuffle breaks out between police and crowd outside Rajaji Hall; burial at 4 pm
A stampede broke out outside Chennai's Rajaji Hall where DMK chief Karunanidhi has been kept for his followers and political leaders to pay their respects to him. At least two died, including a woman in the scuffle that broke between police and crowd outside the hall. Many are believed to be injured in the scuffle after the police used batons to control the mass of supporters. Karunanidhi died on Tuesday evening after prolonged illness.
The overnight drama ended after the Madras High court allowed the burial of Karunanidhi at Marina beach. Earlier, AIADMK government refused to allow the five-time CM burial at the beachfront which has memorials to three other former chief ministers including J Jayalalithaa after which DMK approached the court.
Veteran leader Karunanidhi, who dominated the state's politics for six decades along with arch-rivals MG Ramachandran and later, Jayalalithaa, died after 11 days in the hospital. "Those who are in power are trying to create chaos but you have all shown the strength of the cadres. I appeal to everyone to maintain peace," Karunanidhi's son MK Stalin said.
“I request the cadre to remain calm, I did not want anything for myself. All I want is a fitting tribute to Kalaignar,” added MK Stalin.
A huge crowd gathered outside Chennai's Rajaji Hall where mortal remains of M Karunanidhi are kept. People climb walls in an attempt to enter Rajaji Hall after Police blocked hall entrance due to huge crowds. Construction of burial at Chennai's Marina beach for Karunanidhi, underway.