Dawn-to-dusk bandh began in Puducherry

PUDUCHERRY: The dawn-to-dusk bandh, called today by Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) and Vanniayar Sangam in Puducherry demanding immediate release of PMK founder leader S Ramadoss, began here today.

Ramadoss was arrested on April 30 when he tried to lead a protest demanding that police should book the "true culprits" behind the recent Marakkanam violence.

PMK men heading for a party organised festival at the sea shore town of Mamallapuram in Chennai have been accused of involvement in the violence allegedly targeting Dalits, a charge denied by the party.

All privately operated buses and autorickswas were off the roads. Shops and establishments including retail outlets of the petroleum products remained closed.

Police were posted in strength at all the vulnerable pockets.

Attendance in government offices was however normal, official sources said.