Tamil Nadu: Cops deny EPS approval for roadside rallies

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Police Saturday refused permission for a series of campaign rallies planned by AIADMK general secretary and ex-CM Edappadi K Palaniswami in Namakkal district, citing public safety concerns and a Madras high court directive against holding political rallies on national highways. EPS had planned an intensive campaign across many constituencies on Sunday & Monday.The refusal is grounded on an existing high court order that strictly bars political events along national highways to avoid disruption to vehicular traffic and ensure public safety. Authorities also considered the heightened sensitivity around large gatherings after a stampede at Vijay’s rally in Karur on Sept 27 left 41 people dead.Officials advised ADMK to identify private land to host the events and seek fresh permission for those venues. agencies.