M A I N   N E W S

5 dead in police firing in TN

Ramanathapuram, Sept 11
Five persons were today killed and 50 injured in police firing at Paramakudi, 40 km from here, when a mob of Dalits turned violent, setting ablaze vehicles and blocking traffic following the detention of their leader John Pandian at Vallanadu in Tuticorin district.

Violence broke out after news spread that Pandian had been detained at Tuticorin en route to Paramakudi to pay homage on the death anniversary of Dalit leader Imanuel Sekar.

The police used tear gas and lathicharge before firing at the crowd at Paramakudi.

Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code have been promulgated in Ramanathapuram district. — PTI