Thiruparankundram Protest: Police Book 113 BJP Members Including State Chief Nainar Nagenthran and H Raja

A major political flashpoint erupted in Madurai as the Tamil Nadu police filed cases against 113 individuals, including BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran and senior leader H Raja, for participating in a protest on December 4 related to the lamp-lighting ceremony at Thiruparankundram hill.

Why the Protest Happened

The controversy began after the Madras High Court’s Madurai bench issued an order permitting the lighting of a ceremonial lamp at the top of Thiruparankundram hill. The court also revoked Section 144 prohibitory orders imposed earlier by the district administration.

Following the order, BJP leaders, Hindu Munnani members, and supporters visited the hill site on Thursday to carry out the ceremony.

Police Stop Leaders, Detain Protesters

Despite the court’s order, police stopped the BJP delegation, stating that entry to the hill was still restricted.

When the group insisted on proceeding, police detained:

• Nainar Nagenthran
• H Raja
• Several party workers and Hindu Munnani activists

They were taken in police vehicles and held at private halls for a few hours. Sources confirmed they were all released around 11:20 pm the same night.

Road Blockade, Mass Detentions

As news of the detentions spread, BJP members staged protests and blocked the road, leading to a larger confrontation.
Eventually, over 300 BJP workers were detained at various locations.

All detainees were later released, according to police sources.

Case Registered Under Multiple Sections

On Friday morning, Thiruparankundram police filed cases under seven sections, including:

• Trespassing without permission
• Disturbing public peace
• Damaging public property (under BNS)

Officials said the actions were necessary to maintain law and order.

Originally published on 24×7-news.com.