Chennai: Man detained for hurling petrol bomb at Raj Bhawan gate amidst ongoing tensions
Chennai, October 25: In a troubling incident, a man has been detained for allegedly hurling a petrol bomb at the entrance gate of the Raj Bhawan in Chennai.
Notably, this isn't the first time he has tried such an act, having earlier targeted a BJP office in the city a few months ago.
As per information, the incident was reported at 2.45 pm on Wednesday, as the suspect attempted to launch the bomb near the Raj Bhawan's main gate, which serves as the entrance used by Governor RN Ravi.
A police official stated, "The man, identified as Vinod, will undergo a mental health evaluation," adding that he is likely to face imminent arrest.
It comes against the backdrop of ongoing tension between the Tamil Nadu Governor and the state government. Specifically, it's related to the Governor's second rejection of a state government proposal recommending the appointment of former Director General of Police, C Sylendra Babu, as the chairman of the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission.
In the first instance, when the recommendation was initially submitted, shortly after Babu's retirement in June, Governor Ravi raised concerns about the selection criteria and compliance with the Supreme Court guidelines for his appointment, as well as those of other candidates for the role.
The DMK-led Tamil Nadu Government vehemently defended its stance, asserting that no guidelines had been violated and emphasising that the Governor lacks the authority to influence such decisions. They maintained that the Governor must adhere to the recommendations of the elected government.
Tensions between the MK Stalin-led government and Governor RN Ravi have been escalating since January, triggered by the Governor's controversial omission of certain portions during his customary address to the state Assembly. Subsequent disputes have arisen, including the Governor's suggestion to rename the state as 'Tamilagam.'
The DMK government has consistently alleged that Governor Ravi is biased in favour of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Singh (RSS) and the BJP, further exacerbating the strains in their relationship.
- With inputs from agencies
