EPS Raises Concerns Over Law And Order, Questions Delay In Lioness Task Force

AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, alleging a deterioration in law and order in the state and questioning the government’s handling of crime, drug trafficking, and women’s safety.

Palaniswami cited the reported death of a 23-year-old youth, Vishnu, in Chennai’s Tondiarpet area, alleging that he was beaten to death after being accused of involvement in ganja trade. He questioned whether such incidents indicated a breakdown in policing and governance, and asked if violence was being justified as a response to suspected narcotics-related offences. He said the government must ensure due process rather than allow vigilante-style actions.

The AIADMK leader also criticised remarks made by Chief Minister Vijay at a recent public event in Tiruchirappalli, alleging that the Chief Minister was shifting responsibility for governance shortcomings onto administrative officials. He argued that while bureaucrats implement policy, political leadership remains ultimately accountable for maintaining law and order. According to him, governance responsibility cannot be delegated away when public safety is at stake.

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Palaniswami further raised concerns over the delay in launching the proposed “Lioness Task Force,” a special initiative aimed at improving women’s safety in Tamil Nadu. He alleged that the programme was initially ready for rollout but was postponed at the last minute without clear justification. He questioned whether women were being left vulnerable in the absence of the task force and demanded clarity on the timeline for its implementation.

He also referred to reports involving the alleged arrest of two ruling party functionaries in connection with a gang rape case near Thoothukudi, stating that such incidents raised serious questions about internal discipline within the ruling party. He argued that the government must ensure strict action regardless of political affiliation and maintain public trust in the justice system.

Concluding his remarks, Palaniswami urged the Chief Minister to focus on governance rather than political statements, stressing that maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of citizens—especially women—must remain the government’s top priority. He said public confidence in the administration depends on visible and effective action against crime and a consistent commitment to rule of law.

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