Opposition leader to inspect Kacharayan tank on August 31

The tank covering a sprawling 7.4 acres that had not been desilted for more than three decades was desilted by the DMK. “In addition to manpower we spent Rs 10 lakh on machinery. We completed the job from the second to fourth week of July. We then invited Stalin to visit the tank,” said SR Sivalingam, secretary of DMK Salem West District Association.

This work was carried out despite the district administration not granting permission for the DMK to desilt it as it was in the Chief Minister’s assembly segment, not far away from his native village. Trouble began when AIADMK cadres obtained fresh permission from the administration and started damaging the bunds and to once again desilt the tank from July 25. This continued despite a strong protest from the DMK.

Meanwhile, on July 27, Stalin who was heading to Salem from Coimbatore on road was arrested, citing law and order reasons. DMK took up this issue with the court and obtained a direction in their favour.

“Abiding by the directions given by the High Court, only 25 of us will accompany Stalin to the lake,” he said and added that they will formally inform the Collector and SP about the visit two days before. After the visit, Stalin will address a public meeting at Tiruchengode later that evening.