VELLORE: Members of the Tamil Nadu Film Directors’ Association (TANTIS) called upon political parties and Tamil activists to air their voice in unison in requesting the release of the seven individuals convicted for life in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.
After meeting the convicts - Sriharan (alias) Murugan, Santhan and Perarivalan, for nearly 30 minutes at the Vellore Central Prison, General Secretary of the Association R K Selvamani said TANTIS would submit a petition to the Chief Minister of the State pleading for the convicts’ release. The convicts have spent almost 25 years in prison.
“After getting an appointment with the CM, we will meet her and submit a petition,” he said and added that even the cadres of the Congress party in Tamil Nadu are in favour of the release of the convicts.
The verdict of the Supreme Court’s Constitution Bench on December 2, clearly stated that the state government had the power to pardon or release the life convicts under the provision of Article 161 of the Constitution.
“The Constitution Bench also clearly stated that the power of the State Government under the provision is unchallengeable. The State Government is also keen to release them,” he said.
“Perarivalan is well aware of the legal provisions and is confident of his release. We are hopeful that he and six others will be released during the former CM MGR’s birth centenary celebrations that begin on January 17,” said Selvamani.
He added that Arivu (Perarivalan) is also confident that the Tamil Nadu Government will authorise their release.
Director Vikraman, president of the association, said, “Political parties must shed their differences and join hands to ensure the freedom of the convicts.”
He added the association would bring like-minded people, Tamil activists and all political parties seeking their support for the cause.
Director Ameer said that the Association would play a crucial role in bringing everyone together to achieve the freedom of the seven convicts convicted.
Directors Vetrimaran, Jagadesan, Ranganathan, M Perarasu, S S Ramesh Kanna, Balamurali Varman and Kalanjiam all met with the prisoners in Vellore Central Prison for Men.