Chennai: A bomb threat was reported at the Neelankarai residence of actor-turned-politician and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay on Thursday. The threat came just days after a tragic stampede at his Karur rally, which claimed the lives of 41 people and left several others injured.
Extensive Police Search Declares Threat a Hoax
A heavy police presence, including bomb detection and disposal squads, carried out extensive searches at Vijay’s residence. After thorough inspections, officials confirmed that no explosives were found, declaring the threat to be a false alarm.
Security around Vijay’s home has been significantly tightened as a precautionary measure. Authorities have launched an investigation to trace the origin of the hoax call and identify the individuals responsible.
Rising Trend of Bomb Hoaxes in Tamil Nadu
The threat against Vijay is the latest in a series of similar hoax incidents reported across Tamil Nadu, targeting several high-profile figures and institutions.
In recent weeks, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Governor R.N. Ravi, DMK MP Kanimozhi, actor Trisha, comedian S.V. Shekher, and even the BJP headquarters at Kamalalayam have reportedly received similar bomb threat alerts.
Earlier this week, the Chennai office of The Hindu newspaper on Anna Salai also received a bomb threat, prompting heightened police vigilance.
The Tamil Nadu Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) has remained on high alert in recent weeks due to the surge in such threats, many of which have targeted public places, residences of prominent personalities, and even foreign consulates.
Vijay Seeks Permission to Meet Families of Stampede Victims
Meanwhile, the TVK party has submitted a petition to the Director General of Police (DGP) G. Venkataraman, seeking permission for party chief Vijay to visit Karur and meet the families of those who lost their lives in the September 27 stampede.
A TVK spokesperson told reporters that the party has also requested adequate security arrangements for their leader during the visit.
Vijay, who hosted the Karur rally, has faced criticism from certain quarters for not meeting the affected families in person after the tragedy.
