On the 76th Independence Day, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin hoisted the National Flag at the state Secretariat in Chennai and addressed the audience. The chief minister also presented numerous awards to leaders, civilians, police officials, and others under various categories during the ceremony.
Ahead of the Independence Day celebrations in the state, Tamil Nadu Police beefed up security in all districts on Monday. Heavy police deployment was seen at Chennai MGR Central Railway Station, Chennai International Airport, Metro stations, Medical college hospitals, and special security enhancement was in place at the Koodankulam Nuclear power plant.
Meanwhile, the Greater Chennai Police have also announced traffic diversions on August 15. According to the release by the city police, the traffic diversions will be in place from 6 a.m. till the end of the celebrations. The stretch of Kamarajar Salai from Labour statue up to RBI Subway North on Rajaji Salai and Flag Staff Road will be closed for all vehicular traffic except for those carrying passes.
Speaking about beefed-up security in the state, a senior officer with the police headquarters, said, “There are three reasons for this unprecedented security. One is a routine for the Independence Day celebrations. However, certain Islamic international groups were plotting some mischief and we busted it with the arrest of a 24-year-old engineer recently. Third, the Sri Lankan angle and possibilities of some miscreants creating trouble to grab attention.”
The senior officer further said that the department was acting specifically following intelligence inputs from central agencies.
‘Thagaisal Thamizhar’ award to the veteran Communist leader and freedom fighter R Nallakannu. The award is presented to distinguished people, who contributed significantly to the welfare of the state of Tamil Nadu and Tamils. The award carries a cash prize of ’10 lakh and a citation. Nallakannu after receiving the cash prize along with 5000/- returned the entire amount to the Chief Minister’s relief fund.