Salem, February 14 – The family of a 37-year-old migrant worker who collapsed and died during a meeting of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in Salem has refused to accept his body, demanding financial assistance from the party's founder, Vijay.
The deceased, Suraj, originally from Maharashtra, had been living in Salem for nearly two decades and was employed at a silver workshop.
He attended a large gathering of TVK executives held on Friday at a private ground along the Seelanaickkanpatty bypass road.
Approximately 5,000 party members from 11 Assembly constituencies were invited to participate in the event.
According to police and eyewitness accounts, Suraj suffered a sudden seizure and collapsed while Vijay was addressing the executives from a campaign vehicle.
A medical team stationed at the venue provided immediate first aid. As his condition was critical, he was rushed to a nearby private hospital.
However, he died en route. The Annadhanapatty police reached the spot after receiving information and began inquiries.
Suraj's body was later taken to the Salem Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College and Hospital, where an autopsy was conducted.
Suraj is survived by his wife, Priyanka (32), a 10-year-old daughter, and a five-year-old son.
Family members and relatives expressed grief, stating that Suraj was the sole breadwinner and that the family now faces an uncertain future.
"We will not accept the body until Vijay provides financial assistance to Suraj's family," said Lakshmanan, Suraj's maternal uncle.
He alleged that no senior TVK leader had visited the family to offer condolences.
Friends and relatives also claimed that Vijay did not issue a public statement during the meeting to mourn Suraj's death.
The family further disputed claims that Suraj had a pre-existing heart condition.
While some party representatives reportedly stated that he had health issues, relatives insisted that he had no known heart problems.
In response to the incident, TVK Joint General Secretary Nirmal Kumar posted on social media that Suraj fainted due to illness and was immediately given first aid before being taken to the hospital.
"It is deeply saddening that Suraj died of a heart attack. We express our heartfelt condolences to his family," he said.
The incident has sparked debate locally and on social media, with several voices urging the party to provide immediate support to the bereaved family.
