MADURAI: The Sun Network, which runs the Dinakaran daily, on Wednesday accused M K Azhagiri, elder son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, as being the main culprit behind the attack on the offices of its paper here.
The Chief Operating Officer of the network R M Ramesh told reporters here that 'Azhagiri has been named the main accused in the complaint given by the company to police.'
Putting the loss to the company at close to Rs one crore, Ramesh said that the media should unite against such 'dangerous assaults' as the next target could be any daily.
He alleged that Azhagiri had been giving instructions through phone when one 'Attack Pandi' led a mob and hurled petrol bombs and pelted stones. The entire incident had been videographed.
"We have got proof as to who directed and who executed the arson. We have photographs as well."
Ramesh also alleged that police had remained mute spectators when the incident took place. He also charged Corporation Mayor ThenMozhi with 'stooping to a new low' and setting ablaze paper bundles in front of the office.
Stating that the survey was conducted by an independent organisation, he said If Azhagiri was jealous about Stalin's rank and could not tolerate it, then he should fight the battle with his brother and father and not attack the press, he said.
Ramesh alleged that this was the third petrol bomb attack by Azhagiri's men against newspapers. He was 'misusing' his position as the Chief Minister's son, he said.
Venkateswaran, news editor of the daily, who was also present when the COO addressed reporters, said that it was time the entire press fraternity was alert to 'goondaism'.
Though the company could be revived and the financial loss made up, "can we make up the loss of life and bring the dead people back?" he asked and demanded that firm action be taken against the accused.
