Security checks were intensified at the Chennai Secretariat on Thursday for people arriving to submit petitions at the Chief Minister’s Special Cell. Visitors were allowed in only after thorough screening, and police seized several items brought by the public.
The move follows an incident a day earlier in which a woman identified as Anjalai Ammal from Kallakurichi allegedly entered the Secretariat and attempted self-immolation by pouring petrol on herself. Senior officials have begun inquiries into how petrol was brought past the checks.
On Thursday, police reportedly confiscated medicines, Vicks inhalers, asthma and cough inhalers, balms, candies, nail polish and even scissors from visitors’ bags. Some petitioners also alleged that officers tasted drinking water before returning it.
Many said their belongings were piled at one place and, after submitting petitions, they were unable to locate their items while exiting, leaving them disappointed. Petitioners also complained of harsh behaviour during checks.
Police said the screening was necessary for security, but acknowledged that large crowds create congestion at the Secretariat. They suggested that shifting the Chief Minister’s Special Cell office outside the Secretariat could help address the issue.
