Chennai, Oct 21 — DMK president and former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Wednesday paid tribute to police personnel who died in the line of duty, describing the force as a bastion of public trust and security on Police Commemoration Day.
In a message on X, Stalin said the police were more than a law enforcement agency, underscoring their role in protecting society and ensuring that people could live peacefully. “On Police Commemoration Day, let us gratefully remember the commitment of police personnel and their supreme sacrifice,” he said.
Saluting officers who confronted danger while discharging their responsibilities, Stalin honoured those who laid down their lives safeguarding the public. His message recognised the dedication and courage demanded of personnel serving in difficult and dangerous circumstances.
Police Commemoration Day is observed annually on October 21 to honour personnel who have lost their lives on duty. It commemorates the killing of 10 Indian policemen by Chinese troops at Hot Springs in Ladakh on October 21, 1959. The personnel came under attack while searching for a missing reconnaissance party.
In January 1960, a conference of police chiefs decided to observe October 21 in remembrance of those killed in Ladakh and other personnel who died while serving the country.
Stalin’s tribute comes against the backdrop of mounting Opposition criticism of the Vijay government over its handling of law and order. Earlier this week, Stalin accused the administration of negligence, citing murders, crimes against women and alleged drug trafficking involving ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam functionaries.
The DMK chief demanded closer supervision of policing and stronger action against narcotics networks. These were allegations raised by the Opposition leader.
The arrest of Naam Tamilar Katchi’s Dharapuram bypoll candidate M. Karthika also drew criticism from several parties. Stalin alleged that the government was using arrests to divert attention from its shortcomings.
AMMK general secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran accused CM Vijay of deploying police against political rivals instead of tackling murders, robberies and crimes against women.
The AIADMK separately condemned Karthika’s arrest in an election-related case, alleging political vendetta and demanding withdrawal of the action against NTK members.