Chennai: TVK functionary hacked to death, five suspects arrested

A 45-year-old Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) functionary, identified as S. Kannan, was hacked to death by a gang on a motorcycle in the Vannandurai area of Besant Nagar, Chennai, on a Saturday night. CCTV footage captured the brutal attack, which showed assailants chasing and repeatedly striking Kannan with sharp weapons.

Police have arrested five men in connection with the killing. Preliminary investigations suggest the motive may be retaliation for a 2009 murder in which Kannan was an accused. Kannan, a former AIADMK secretary and a known history-sheeter, had recently joined the TVK.

The incident has sparked political criticism regarding the state's law and order. Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin questioned the government's ability to ensure public safety, noting the murder occurred just before a scheduled Assembly debate. Additionally, BJP leader Nainar Nagendran criticized the administration, claiming the incident demonstrates a lack of security even for ruling party members.