Chennai: The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has deferred its high-profile public meeting in Erode which was originally set for 16 December to 18 December, citing what it called “excessive and newly imposed police restrictions.”

The announcement was made by the party’s executive committee chief coordinator, Sengottaiyan. The meeting, to be held under the leadership of Vijay, is now proposed at Pavalatham Palayam on the outskirts of Erode.

According to Sengottaiyan, the party had earlier submitted a formal memorandum requesting permission for the 16 December rally to District Collector Kandasamy and Superintendent of Police Sujatha.

In the application, TVK had informed authorities that the rally was expected to draw up to 40,000 people. Following this, and after initial media interactions in which Sengottaiyan reportedly referred to a “major political mobilisation” across Tamil Nadu, the district police and revenue authorities conducted an inspection of the proposed venue.

The party claims that after this inspection, several new conditions and restrictions, going beyond the usual regulatory requirements, were imposed for the conduct of the public meeting.

“Because of the excessive police controls and newly introduced rules, it has become impossible for us to organise the meeting on the 16th,” he told reporters.

What is TVK planning next?

Sengottaiyan said the party would now seek fresh permission for 18 December.

“New conditions have been issued which were never part of previous guidelines. To comply with them and secure approval, we need a few more days. We will submit a fresh representation to the District Collector and the Superintendent of Police seeking permission for the 18th,” he said.

He also warned that the party would approach the court if its request was rejected again.

“If approval is refused despite our compliance with all legal norms, we will approach the judiciary,” he asserted.

What restrictions were imposed?

When questioned about the nature of the restrictions, Sengottaiyan appeared visibly emotional.

“I want to speak about it, but I feel like I am struggling with my own heart. Even when I open my mouth, I am unable to find the right words,” he said, before leaving the briefing abruptly.

Political context

The postponement comes at a time of heightened political activity in Tamil Nadu, with TVK preparing a series of public mobilisations under Vijay’s leadership ahead of upcoming electoral contests.

The Erode rally is expected to be a major show of strength for the relatively young political party.

IANS Inputs