TN CM Vijay Announces Rs 40 Lakh Ex-Gratia for Slain Theni Cop
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay announces ex-gratia for the family of SSI K. Senthil Kumar, who died after being assaulted while on duty in Theni.
In a move to support the family of a fallen officer, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay has announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 40 lakh following the tragic death of a police officer in Theni district. The announcement comes after Special Sub-Inspector (SSI) K. Senthil Kumar, 57, succumbed to injuries sustained during a violent clash while performing his duties on Sunday night.
A Routine Duty Turns Fatal
The incident unfolded in the Samatharmapuram area, where SSI Senthil Kumar was stationed. Attached to the Palanichettipatti Police Station and deputed to the office of the Theni Deputy Superintendent of Police, Senthil Kumar encountered a group of individuals bursting firecrackers across a public road.
Recognizing that the activity was not only a public safety hazard but also a significant obstruction to traffic, the officer intervened. He advised the group to move away to prevent inconvenience to the general public. In an effort to document the violation, Senthil Kumar attempted to record the activities of the group on his mobile phone.
The Assault and Aftermath
The situation escalated rapidly when the officer tried to apprehend one of the youths involved. According to reports, a person struck him with an elbow, causing the 57-year-old officer to lose his balance and crash to the ground.
A patrolling police team arrived at the scene shortly after the assault. Senthil Kumar was rushed to a nearby private hospital for emergency care before being transferred to the Theni Government Medical College Hospital. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, he passed away due to the severity of his injuries.
State Response and Legal Action
Chief Minister Joseph Vijay expressed his profound grief over the incident, describing the loss of SSI Senthil Kumar as "irreparable" for both his family and the Tamil Nadu Police Department. In a press statement, the Chief Minister conveyed his heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the bereaved family, relatives, and colleagues of the deceased officer.
"I express my deepest condolences and comfort to the family, relatives and those who work with K. Senthilkumar, who are grieving the loss of his life, and have also ordered a relief fund of four million rupees to be provided to his family," the Chief Minister stated.
Arrests Made
Following a detailed inspection of the crime scene, the Theni District Superintendent of Police (SP) confirmed that the law is taking its course. Authorities have already arrested three individuals from the locality in connection with the assault that led to the officer's death.