CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Police was on its toes on Friday, on the eve of state wide dawn to dusk bandh call given by Tamil Nadu Traders Association and various farmers’ associations in the state. In Chennai, no major violence has been reported as part of the protests and public life went on as normal. Bus and train services were not affected but a large number of shops were closed. Some miscreants pelted stones at a car showroom at Saidapet, damaging its glass panels. Police immediately rushed to the spot and brought the situation under its control. In 32 locations protests were held. The opposition party DMK demanded the intervention of the Centre to end the long-drawn Cauvery water dispute and also urged the government to take steps to protect the interests and safety of Tamil people in Karnataka. Law and Order was well maintained by the Police as they had made elaborate security arrangements. Police provided protection to Government and private establishments. MTC buses were operational and Police thwarted efforts by some protestors to block vehicles. Train service was normal. Attendance at government and private offices and schools was near normal. Though all government schools functioned, several private schools were shut down. The quarterly exam that were scheduled for Friday was postponed to Saturday in most of these schools. Peaceful Bandh in Delta Districts In Delta region the farmers strike passed off peacefully on Friday despite agitations, protests and road blocks. Government offices and educational institutions functioned as usual. Nearly 35, 000 people were detained throughout the state and released later in the evening.]]>
