AIADMK Walks Out of Assembly Over Fisherman's Death in Saudi Pirate Attack

AIADMK legislators on Wednesday walked out of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly in Chennai after their special calling-attention motion regarding the death of a 39-year-old fisherman in a pirate attack off Saudi Arabia was not taken up for discussion.

Speaking to reporters outside the assembly, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami criticised the treasury benches for their reaction during the walkout. He stated that members had thumped their desks and laughed as the opposition staged its protest.

According to Palaniswami, the party had submitted a notice under Rule 55 five days prior to raise the issue, but it was not brought to the floor. He termed the administration a "reels govt" that lacked genuine concern for the welfare of Tamils.

The incident involved fisherman P Maaveeran, a resident of Thoduvai village in Mayiladuthurai district, who was killed by pirates in the sea off Saudi Arabia on the night of August 10. Three other fishermen sustained injuries during the attack and remain hospitalised in Saudi Arabia.

Palaniswami stated that families of the victims have been reaching out to AIADMK MLAs seeking assistance. He urged the state government to take immediate steps to repatriate Maaveeran's body and ensure the safe return of the injured fishermen to Tamil Nadu.

He added that securing the return and safety of Tamils facing distress abroad is the duty of the government, alleging that the administration continues to ignore their plight.