Cauvery issue: Tamil outfit warns of intensifying protests

After leading anti-IPL protests in the backdrop of the Cauvery issue last week, pro-Tamil outfit Tamizhaga Vazhvurimai Katchi (TVK) today warned of intensifying its agitation, including holding protests at the Marina here.

TVK chief T Velmurugan also warned of disrupting water supply to an aluminium company owned by Vedanta Resources as well to that of Southern Railway, as part of his outfit's intensified protests urging the Centre to constitute the Cauvery Management Board (CMB).

Vedanta Resources also operates Sterlite Copper in Tuticorin district.

Locals have been demanding the closure of the smelter plant, citing health concerns.

Speaking to reporters here, Velmurugan said as part of the Cauvery protests, TVK has planned to hold agitations at Marina beach, provided it was permitted by the court and the police.

Following massive pro-Jallikattu protests at Marina last year which ended on a violent note, police have banned any kind of protests or demonstrations.

The Madras High Court is presently looking into a petition filed by farmers' leader P Ayyakannu seeking direction to the city police to permit him to stage a hunger strike for 90 days at Marina, demanding constitution of CMB.

Velmurugan said, "If permission is provided by the court and police, we will stage protest (on CMB) without disturbing the public."