Stalin Demands Accountability From CM Vijay Over Alleged Custodial Death
Stalin seeks accountability over alleged custodial death, questions CM Vijay's silence.
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president M.K. Stalin has sharply criticized the Tamil Nadu government following the death of a 24-year-old man from Thoothukudi, alleging that the incident points to a recurring pattern of custodial deaths in the state. Stalin questioned why Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay had remained silent on the matter and accused the government of failing to demonstrate either accountability or compassion in response to the incident.
The controversy stems from the death of Arunachalam, a resident of Amudha Nagar in Thoothukudi district, who died while undergoing treatment at the Government Medical College Hospital after allegedly sustaining injuries while in police custody. According to available details, Arunachalam was arrested by police on July 17 on charges of illegally selling liquor in the black market. He reportedly developed health complications later that same day while in custody, after which he was released on bail and sent home with his relatives as his condition worsened. He was subsequently admitted to the Thoothukudi Government Medical College Hospital, where he remained under treatment for several days before dying on Wednesday despite medical efforts to save him.
Following his death, members of Arunachalam's family alleged that he had been assaulted by police personnel during his time in custody and claimed that the injuries sustained during that period ultimately led to his death. The allegations sparked protests among relatives and local residents, who demanded a thorough and impartial investigation along with action against those found responsible. The incident has also drawn criticism from multiple political parties, with opposition leaders calling for greater transparency in the inquiry process.
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Reacting to the case on social media platform X, Stalin condemned what he described as a continuing pattern of custodial deaths across Tamil Nadu and asked when the Chief Minister would address the repeated incidents publicly. He referred to remarks Vijay had made while in the Opposition, when he had reportedly questioned whether a mere apology was sufficient response to such cases under the previous government. Stalin alleged that after assuming office, Vijay had failed to extend even a basic apology or express public sympathy toward Arunachalam's grieving family.
Stalin further questioned whether "accountability" and "apology" had become words the current administration was actively avoiding, accusing the ruling TVK government of showing little empathy toward families affected by alleged custodial incidents. The episode has reignited political scrutiny over policing practices in Tamil Nadu, with growing calls from opposition parties and civil society for an independent and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Arunachalam's death.
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