Kovai Muslim women protest against PFI ban

COIMBATORE: A large number of Muslim women took out a procession and gathered in protest against the ban on Popular Front of India (PFI) triggering tension in Coimbatore on Wednesday.

Condemning the ban, women from various Muslim organisations gathered at Ukkkadam bus stand and went on a procession through Kottaimedu area. They then gathered before the PFI district headquarters office and shouted slogans against the BJP government at the Centre.

A police team led by Deputy Commissioner for Coimbatore (North) GS Madhavan arrived and held talks while persuading the women to withdraw their protest. Meanwhile, security measures have been intensified in view of renewed tension following the ban on the organisation.

A round the clock vehicle check is being done in the 27 newly constituted check posts in Coimbatore city limits. Also, a large number of police personnel have been deployed in some sensitive localities like Ukkadam, Gandhipuram, Town Hall, Podanur and Kuniamuthur.

Patrolling has also been increased particularly at night. Coimbatore City Police Commissioner V Balakrishnan inspected the Kottaimedu area in Ukkadam and took stock of the security arrangements.

Police have been on a heightened alert following a string of attacks in Coimbatore, which spread to other parts of the state, following NIA raids on PFI functionaries.