Akash, 26, of Vilar on the outskirts of Thanjavur, was arrested on charges of ‘slapping’ a police officer on duty.
Inquiries reveal that the incident was a sequel to a wordy duel that ensued between Akash and the cadres of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK). This person blocked the road near the entrance of the Thanjavur Corporation on Monday. The VCK cadres blocked the carriageway after their party flex board installed on the Gandhiji Road near the Thanjavur Railway Junction was removed by the civic body on August 17. The protesters refused to allow any vehicle to pass through until their demand for reinstallation of the flex board at the same spot was fulfilled.
However, Akash had tried to pass through the stretch on his motorcycle. The VCK cadres intercepted and allegedly orally abused him which resulted in a quarrel. A team from the Thanjavur West Police Station reached the spot and tried to pacify the protesters to withdraw their agitation. But the protesters continued to target Akash even after the arrival of the police.
On seeing the police trying to pacify the protesters instead of coming to his rescue, Akash questioned the policemen. At this juncture, Abdul Raheem, a special sub-inspector of police, reportedly slapped Akash. An enraged Akash allegedly slapped the Special SI leading to his arrest. Meanwhile, the agitating VCK cadres withdrew their protest, sources said.
Published – August 17, 2026 09:03 pm IST