Vijay government takes retaliatory action against channel for criticising Chief Minister; Chennai Press Club slams action

CHENNAI: The Vijay government in Tamil Nadu has allegedly taken retaliatory action against Puthiya Thalaimurai channel by removing it from the government cable network without prior notice or official communication. The move reportedly came after the channel aired reports critical of the government over law and order issues in the state. Earlier too, the channel had faced action during periods when it criticised the Stalin government.

It is customary for chief ministers to hold press conferences after meetings with Union ministers and the Prime Minister in Delhi. However, Vijay returned without addressing the media. The government was also reportedly upset over reports criticising Vijay’s daily travel. Vijay lives in Neelankarai, located outside Chennai, and travels from there to the Secretariat every day. The channel had aired reports highlighting the inconvenience caused to the public and security personnel due to these journeys.

Following the government’s action, the Chennai Press Club has issued a statement criticising the move. The Press Club said the action was an attack on freedom of expression and warned of public protests if the decision is not withdrawn. Critics have also pointed out that the Vijay government is following the same approach adopted by previous governments against media outlets critical of those in power.