Chennai: Expressing shock over the death of a 13-year-old boy while erecting DMK’s flag pole in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday said that he is deeply saddened to learn that the banner and cut-out culture continues despite his condemnations. However, he said, the party members from now on should accept his request as an order and stop the banner culture.


The statement from the Chief Minister follows the demise of 13-year-old boy Dinesh who was electrocuted while erecting DMK party flag pole near EB office in Villupuram to welcome DMK Minister Ponmudi for a wedding function.


In a media statement, MK Stalin said, “I am continuously emphasizing that people should not erect banners or flag posts or anything that will be of disturbance to the people. The banners are not only a disturbance to people but also result in life losses.”


Furthermore, he said, “I am shocked to learn about the demise of a youngster Dinesh due to electrocution while erecting a flag post. It's deeply saddening to me that such an extravaganza including the banner culture continues despite my condemnations.”


“I sincerely request everyone to stop the banner culture since it poses a threat to life. The party members should accept my request as an order and stop the banner culture,” he said. 


The Chief Minister then went on to say that he does not know how to console the parents of 13-year-old Dinesh, who lost his life due to the menace. Therefore, he said, “I join with the party to grief over the demise and stand by them. However, putting a stop to the banner culture is the true way to pay tribute to the deceased!”.