14 Charged in Tamil Nadu Ambulance Attack, Face Up to 10 Years in Prison

In a disturbing incident that has drawn widespread condemnation, 14 individuals, including four AIADMK functionaries, have been charged in connection with a violent attack on a 108 ambulance crew during a political campaign in Thuraiyur, Trichy. The assault, targeting an ambulance driver and a pregnant medical assistant, has led to a petition in the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court seeking enhanced protection for ambulance workers across Tamil Nadu until the state assembly elections conclude. This incident highlights the urgent need to ensure the safety of emergency medical services during politically charged events.

Details of the Thuraiyur Ambulance Assault

The attack took place on August 24, 2025, during an AIADMK campaign event led by General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami in Thuraiyur. A 108 ambulance, responding to an emergency call about a person fainting at the rally, was obstructed and attacked by AIADMK workers. The ambulance driver, Senthil Kumar, and medical assistant Hemalatha, who is eight months pregnant, were allegedly assaulted, with the attackers banging on the vehicle and physically harming the crew. Senthil Kumar, now under treatment at Thuraiyur Government Hospital, stated that the crew was simply performing their duty to save a life.

Legal Consequences and Charges

Based on a complaint filed by Senthil Kumar, the Thuraiyur police registered a case against 14 individuals, including AIADMK’s Thuraiyur town secretary ‘Amaithi’ Balu, councilor Deenadayalan, two other administrators, and 10 unidentified persons. The charges fall under sections 351 (criminal intimidation), 132 (assault or criminal force to deter a public servant), 191 (rioting), 126 (wrongful restraint) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and section 4 of the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Woman Act. The Ambulance Association has warned that such attacks could result in up to 10 years of imprisonment under the Medical Security Act, emphasizing the gravity of the offense.

Political Backdrop and Accusations

The assault is believed to have been triggered by remarks made by Edappadi K. Palaniswami during a prior campaign in Vellore’s Anicuttu area, where he accused the DMK government of using ambulances to disrupt his rallies. These comments, which included instructions to note ambulance details, are thought to have incited the violence in Thuraiyur. DMK Medical Team Secretary and Aiyaram Vilukku MLA Ezhilan strongly criticized the attack, attributing it to Palaniswami’s provocative statements, which he described as reckless and dangerous.

Call for Protection of Ambulance Workers

In response to the incident, a petition has been filed in the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court, requesting comprehensive police protection for 108 ambulance drivers and emergency medical technicians until the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are completed. The petition underscores the vulnerability of ambulance workers, who face significant risks while providing critical medical services. The Ambulance Association has also proposed affixing banners on 108 ambulances to warn against attacks, clarifying that emergency vehicles are on life-saving missions and not merely passing through.

Reactions and Future Measures

The attack has elicited strong reactions from the public, medical community, and officials, who have condemned the violence against emergency workers. Senthil Kumar’s statement, “We who went to save a life are now suffering,” reflects the deep sense of injustice felt by those in the medical field. The Ambulance Association’s call for stricter enforcement of the Medical Security Act aims to deter future incidents, while the High Court petition seeks systemic protections for frontline workers during political events.

This incident has brought renewed attention to the challenges faced by emergency responders in Tamil Nadu. As the state prepares for upcoming elections, ensuring the safety of ambulance crews remains a priority. The ongoing investigation and legal proceedings will be closely monitored, with hopes that justice will be served and stronger safeguards will be implemented to protect those who dedicate their lives to saving others.