DMK workers detained during protest against TVK minister Sarathkumar over white powder video row
DMK workers in Chennai were detained by police after staging an unauthorized protest against TVK minister Sarathkumar. The demonstration was sparked by a viral video showing the minister handling a white powder during an IPL match, which he later claimed was medicine for his child.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing political tensions and the use of social media controversies to mobilize political opposition in Tamil Nadu.
CHENNAI: DMK workers staged a road blockade at Doveton in Vepery on Monday, demanding legal action against TVK minister Sarathkumar over a viral video that showed him handling a white powder during an IPL match in 2025. Police, who had denied permission for the protest, detained at least 50 demonstrators and dispersed the gathering.The protest was led by former Tamil Nadu minister PK Sekarbabu and Chennai Corporation Mayor R. Priya. A large number of DMK workers participated in the demonstration, disrupting traffic in the area for a brief period.The protest followed the circulation of a video in which Sarathkumar was seen using a debit card to crush a white powder while watching an IPL match. Responding to the controversy, Sarathkumar said the substance was a tablet that he had crushed to administer to his sick child.Despite the explanation, the DMK demanded legal action and organised the protest. Police prevented the demonstration from continuing, citing the absence of permission, and detained the participants before removing them from the venue.Meanwhile, a woman advocate, Saranya, submitted a formal complaint to the Chennai City Police Commissioner seeking legal action against Sarathkumar.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Chennai | Silver Rate in Chennai | Bank Holidays in Chennai | Public Holidays in Chennai | Chennai AQI | Weather in Chennai | Petrol Price in Chennai | Diesel Price in Chennai | CNG Price in Chennai | LPG Price in ChennaiStay updated with the latest Chennai news. Download the TOI App.
The report provides a factual summary of the protest and the minister's explanation without taking a side.
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