IMK functionary arrested for assaulting auto driver

Coimbatore: A functionary of the Indu Makkal Katchi (IMK) was arrested for assaulting a 23-year-old auto driver who attempted to pacify a fight between the functionary and cadres of Hindu Munnani at Selvapuram.The accused was identified as K Surya Prasath, 28, from Narayanasamy Nagar at Selvapuram in the city.Preliminary inquiry revealed that Prasath, who was engaged in two-wheeler and four-wheeler consultancy, joined the IMK after he was removed from the Hindu Munnani a few months ago for his involvement in 14 cases, including an attempt to murder between 2016 and 2024.A few days ago, supporters of Hindu Munnani stuck posters wishing the people for Diwali in Selvapuram area. Prasath pasted IMK posters on those stuck by the Hindu Munnani functionaries, which angered the latter. On Thursday evening, a verbal duel broke out between the members of IMK and Hindu Munnani near NSK Street at Selvapuram.S Sathish, 23, from Amul Nagar at Selvapuram, who was passing by that side, tried to intervene and broker peace. He requested Prasath not to fight, but the former assaulted Sathish. Prasath also picked up a stone and tried to attack Sathish and threatened him with dire consequences. Sathish managed to escape and filed a complaint with the Selvapuram police.Police booked Prasath under sections 296 (b), 115 (2), and 351 (3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Act and arrested him on Friday. He was remanded in judicial custody and lodged at the Coimbatore Central Prison.