Tamil Nadu – Chennai : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Monday announced financial assistance of ₹40 lakh to the family of Special Sub-Inspector (SSI) Senthil Kumar, who was allegedly beaten to death by a group of intoxicated youths during Deepavali celebrations in Theni district.
Expressing deep shock and sorrow over the tragic incident, Chief Minister Vijay conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members, relatives and fellow police personnel. He assured the family of the government’s support during this difficult time.
Roadside Celebration Turns Fatal
According to preliminary reports, the incident took place on Sunday at Samadharmapuram in Theni district. A group of youths allegedly blocked a public road, burst firecrackers and recorded social media reels, causing inconvenience to local residents and motorists.
Special Sub-Inspector Senthil Kumar, who was passing through the area, reportedly intervened and advised the youths not to obstruct traffic or disturb the public in the name of festival celebrations.
However, the youths allegedly ignored his instructions and continued bursting firecrackers on the road. When the officer began recording their activities on his mobile phone to document the violations, some members of the group reportedly became aggressive and attacked him.
The assailants, suspected to have been under the influence of alcohol and other intoxicating substances, allegedly assaulted the officer severely, leaving him critically injured. He collapsed at the scene and was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital. However, doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Four Arrested; Investigation Intensified
Following the incident, Theni Superintendent of Police Praveen Gautham visited the crime scene and personally supervised the preliminary investigation.
Police officials examined CCTV footage from nearby locations and collected other crucial evidence to establish the sequence of events leading to the fatal attack.
Police have arrested four persons in connection with the case, while further investigation is underway to determine whether others were involved in the assault.
CM Announces ₹40 Lakh Financial Assistance
Reacting to the killing, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay expressed profound grief over the loss of the police officer’s life while performing his duty.
As a gesture of support to the bereaved family, the Chief Minister announced ₹40 lakh in financial assistance from the state government.
The brutal killing of a police officer during Deepavali celebrations has sparked widespread outrage and raised serious concerns about public safety, law and order, and the increasing instances of attacks on police personnel.
The incident has also highlighted the importance of responsible festival celebrations and respecting the rights and safety of fellow citizens.
Meanwhile, police have intensified their investigation to identify everyone involved in the attack and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
