MGR Statue Vandalized in Madurai: AIADMK Demands Swift Justice

Madurai:

A 35-year-old statue of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and AIADMK founder MG Ramachandran (MGR) was discovered vandalized and uprooted from its base in Madurai on Monday, sparking significant outrage among party members who demanded immediate police action.

The 3.5-foot statue, situated near the renowned Jallikattu (bull-taming) arena at Avaniyapuram in the Thirupparankundram constituency, was found toppled early Monday morning. Community members who have honored the statue for decades expressed that the location had become shrine-like, and the vandalism deeply wounded their sentiments.

A high-ranking police official informed NDTV that "an investigation is in progress utilizing CCTV footage," and added, "We anticipate apprehending the perpetrators by this evening."

AIADMK officials promptly arrived at the scene and reinstalled the statue after conducting minor repairs. District representatives of the party also submitted a formal complaint with Avaniyapuram police requesting the arrest of those responsible.

AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) strongly denounced the incident, labeling the culprits as "anti-social elements" while demanding their swift arrest.

He stated, "This act of cowardice was perpetrated by individuals unable to confront MGR's lasting popularity and policies. Law enforcement must take firm action against them."

Local AIADMK leaders have urged authorities to enhance night patrols in the area, highlighting that the location of the incident lacks sufficient security despite heavy traffic flow, including school vehicles.

Police have registered a case and are reviewing surveillance footage from neighboring establishments to identify the vandals.