With Covid-19 cases in Tamil Nadu on the rise, the state government had prohibited installing of idols in public places or taking out processions for immersion of idols. Despite this, a pro- Hindu organisation installed idols in certain areas which were later seized by police.
Government’s decision was vehemently opposed by BJP and other pro-Hindu groups.
Even after repeated requests and the BJP state president meeting the CM and requesting to allow Vinayagar Chaturthi celebrations, the government stuck to its stand and turned down the requests. Pro-Hindu organisations like Hindu Munnani openly dared the government that they will install 1.5 lakh idols as planned for the celebrations. Even the appeals made before the High Court were not fruitful but the court allowed the individuals to immerse the idols in water bodies barring Marina Beach in Chennai.
Hindu Munnani members installed idols in few pockets of Chennai, Coimbatore and in a few other districts. All the idols which were installed in public places were seized by the police and over 20 people were arrested for violating the government order. They even tried to take out processions.
War of words broke out between the AIADMK and the BJP over the government’s decision to prohibit Vinayagar Chathurthi celebration and was seen as a flash point between both the alliance partners.
