CMB agitators take to streets against IPL in city, burn tickets and team jersey

The traffic came to a standstill on Anna Salai and Kamarajar Salai, as protesters were stopped at different check points, resulting in motorists being stuck all along the roads leading to Anna Salai. Barricades erected at different places were thrown off by protesters in their attempt to enter Wallajah Road. Protesters raised slogans against the Centre and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and burnt his effigy demanding immediate constitution of the Cauvery Management Board. 

Thamizhar Panpatu Kalai Ilakkiya Peravai members, including directors P Bharathiraja, Vetrimaran, Thangar Bachan and Gowthaman were joined by lyricist Vairamuthu and director and politician Seeman. Additional Commissioner (South) M C Sarangan held talks with Bharathiraja, requesting him to direct the protesters to disperse. The director refused to oblige, leading to the arrest of all of them. 

Police said that as many as 780 protesters were arrested and lodged in Rajarathnam Stadium in Egmore, Kannapar Thidal in Periamet, ADVP hall in Nungambakkam and Muthaiah hall in Royapettah, adding that they would be released after the match was over. Police had to use mild force to keep the protesters under control, said a top officer. 

Police’s efforts to contain and control the crowd led to NTK leader Seeman losing balance and almost fell on the road. Infuriated over the incident, his cadre attacked Assistant Commissioner Senthil (special unit) in which he lost three teeth. Another constable who tried to defend the officer also suffered injuries. The Assistant Commissioner was rushed to the hospital. Similarly, IPL fans who came wearing yellow jerseys to watch the match were targeted. T-shirts of four CSK fans, who were sitting inside a car, were removed and thrown away. They were also beaten up, the video of which went viral and drew ire online.

Minutes after the match began, a shoe was hurled into the stadium which fell near CSK’s Ravindra Jadeja. It was immediately removed and eight men belonging to NTK were arrested.