Tamil Nadu opposition criticizes government over Diwali murder surge

Opposition parties in Tamil Nadu, including the DMK, AIADMK, PMK, and AMMK, have condemned the state government following reports of multiple murders during the Deepavali festival. Critics cited a breakdown in law and order, with some leaders pointing to rising drug use and alcohol consumption as contributing factors to the violence.

DMK Deputy General Secretary Kanimozhi Karunanidhi highlighted specific fatalities, including a Special Police Sub-Inspector in Theni, a young woman in Tiruvallur, two children in Samayapuram, and an IT employee in Tiruchirappalli. Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin accused Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay of failing to ensure public and police safety.

PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss called for the temporary closure of liquor outlets during festive seasons to prevent violence. In response, School Education Minister A Rajmohan rejected the claims of an unprecedented surge, stating that murder figures during the festival have been comparable in previous years, noting six murders in 2025 compared to 11 in 2024.