Union Minister Demands CBI Probe for Tamil Nadu BSP Chief's Murder: Calls for Better Dalit Protection

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale demanded a CBI probe into the murder of Tamil Nadu BSP chief K Armstrong and raised concerns over the safety of Dalit leaders in the state. He pledged support to Armstrong's family and called on both Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister M K Stalin for immediate action.

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale met the family of slain Tamil Nadu BSP chief K Armstrong on Wednesday, pushing for a CBI investigation to bring the masterminds behind Armstrong's murder to justice.

During his visit to the Bahujan Samaj Party leader's home, where he paid his respects, the Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment criticized the lack of security for Dalit leaders and the broader community in Tamil Nadu, urging the government to ensure their protection.

Expressing his condolences to Armstrong's wife, Athawale described the murder as 'sad and serious,' highlighting its occurrence in the state capital. He appealed to Chief Minister M K Stalin for a CBI inquiry, suggesting the involvement of individuals beyond those already arrested.

Athawale promised his and the Republican Party of India's support to Armstrong's family, revealing plans to write to Union Home Minister Amit Shah and CM Stalin to advocate for the CBI probe.

Citing the deteriorating law and order situation in Tamil Nadu and increasing attacks on Dalits, he urged the Chief Minister to bolster their protection. Armstrong was recently killed by a group of men at his under-construction home, with 11 suspects arrested so far, including one who died in a police encounter while allegedly attempting to escape and attacking officers.

(With inputs from agencies.)