Dalit TN MLA weds brahmin girl

Dalit TN MLA weds brahmin girl

Dad Says Girl Abducted, Threatens To Kill Himself

Karal.Marx @timesgroup.com

Villupuram:06.10.2020

It had all the elements of a kollywood blockbuster — a high-profile politician, a love story, a caste twist and a suicide bid. As AIADMK MLA A Prabhu, 36, a dalit, was solemnizing his marriage with his lady love S Soundharya, a 19-year-old brahmin girl, at his house in Kallakurichi early on Monday, the bride’s father, S Swaminathan, barged into the MLA’s house, doused himself in petrol and threatened to set himself on fire.

The furious temple priest accused Prabhu of abducting his daughter and marrying her against his wish. Swaminathan threatened legal action against Prabhu for having a relationship with his daughter for the past three years, though she was a minor, and for breach of trust his family had reposed in him.

AIADMK MLA A Prabhu tied the knot with S Soundharya at his residence in Kallakurichi on Monday

My wife is an adult and free to make her own choice: MLA

AIADMK cadres and police personnel, gathered at the spot, thwarted his attempt to set himself on fire, and took him to Thiyagathurugam police station. When TOI contacted Kallakurichi superintendent of police Ziaul Haque, the officer confirmed the developments inside the AIADMK MLA’s residence. Based on a complaint by the Thiyagathurugam village administrative officer, a case was registered against the bride’s father under IPC section 309 (Attempt to suicide). Swaminathan has been questioned and an investigation is on, said the SP.

“Though we are brahmins, for 14 years, Prabhu grew up in my house and I considered him my son. But he broke that trust,” said Swaminathan. He said his daughter Soundharya was completing an undergraduate programme in Arts. “She was lured into the relationship three years ago. I believe my daughter is not mentally prepared for marriage,” said Swaminathan. He alleged that his family was facing threat from supporters of the MLA and sought protection. “I demand that Prabhu send my daughter back to me” he said. “My wife is a major and she is of legal age to enter into matrimony. We welcome any inquiry pertaining to it and we will face the consequences legally,” said Prabhu, dismissing Swaminathan’s charge that he was threatening him and his family.