NIA Launches Investigation into Petrol Bomb Attack on Governor’s House in Chennai
Chennai, India – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has commenced a thorough investigation into the recent attack on the Governor’s House in Chennai, where two petrol bombs were hurled towards the main entrance. The incident, which took place yesterday at approximately 2:45 pm, has raised concerns about the safety and security of the Governor and the constitutional head of the state.
The perpetrator, identified as 42-year-old Karukka Vinod of Nandanam SM, was apprehended by the Guindy police and has been remanded in judicial custody until November 9. The Deputy Secretary to the Governor, Sengottaiyan, filed an official complaint with the Chennai Police Commissioner’s Office regarding the attack.
In an official statement released by the Governor’s House, it was revealed that the miscreants attempted to enter the Raj Bhavan through the main entrance gate using petrol bombs. The quick response of the security personnel thwarted the attackers and prevented a major catastrophe. However, during the confrontation with the police, the suspects detonated one of the petrol bombs near the main entrance gate.
The Governor has faced increasing threats to his life in recent months, with verbal threats coming primarily from DMK leaders and their allies through public gatherings and social media platforms. These actions are in direct violation of the Constitution Act, as they aim to hinder the Governor from performing his duties.
Previously, the Governor’s vehicle was targeted in Mayiladuthurai, where it was attacked with stones and rolling sticks, resulting in physical harm to the Governor himself. Despite filing a complaint, the police failed to register a case, raising concerns about the security of the Raj Bhavan.
The current investigation by the NIA stems from Governor Ravi’s accusations last year against the Popular Front of India (PFI), linking them to illegal activities and terrorist involvement. Following these allegations, the Central Government banned the PFI and its affiliates. Nationwide raids were conducted, resulting in the arrest of several PFI executives and the seizure of crucial digital evidence.
Recently, six PFI members, including Karukka Vinod, who was already imprisoned for an attack on the BJP headquarters involving a petrol bomb, were released on bail. A video circulating on social media shows Vinod leaving jail accompanied by PFI officials, leading the NIA to suspect a conspiracy behind the petrol bomb attack.
The NIA officials are currently investigating the possibility of the PFI’s involvement in the attack, primarily focusing on a potential prison conspiracy. They suspect that the petrol bomb may have been thrown at Raj Bhavan through the Garukka Vinod Gate, and are analyzing video footage to gather evidence.
Chennai City Police Commissioner Sandeeprai Rathod met with Governor Ravi to discuss the security measures implemented at the Governor’s House following the attack. The meeting also addressed the security concerns surrounding President Dravupati Murmu.
A complaint has been filed by Mohan, the head constable of Guindy police station, regarding the petrol bomb attack at the Governor’s House. The case has been registered against Karukka Vinod under five sections of the Explosive Ordnance Prevention Act, including attempted murder by fire and causing damage to public property.
Prison officials have stated that Karukka Vinod and PFI members were held in separate sections of the jail, making it impossible for them to communicate. They also confirmed that bailees are not released individually, and after necessary procedures are followed, they are released from the main entrance gate.
The NIA’s investigation is expected to shed light on the individuals responsible for planning and executing the attack, as well as any potential associates involved. The aim is to ensure the safety of the Governor and maintain the security of the Raj Bhavan.