APCR Condemns Attack on PUCL’s Dr. V. Suresh, Calls for Immediate Action and Protection of Civil Rights

The Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) has strongly condemned the violent assault on Dr. V. Suresh, National General Secretary of the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) and senior advocate of the Madras High Court. The incident took place on November 2 during a public hearing in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, organized by the civic group Arappor Iyakkam to discuss the environmental and social harm caused by illegal stone quarrying.

According to reports, the hearing was disrupted by around 25 individuals allegedly linked to quarry-owner interests. During the attack, a chair was thrown, hitting Dr. Suresh on the back of his head and causing injuries that required hospital treatment.

In a statement, APCR described the assault as “a shameful attempt to silence voices defending democracy, environment, and human rights.” The group expressed solidarity with Dr. Suresh, PUCL, Arappor Iyakkam, and the villagers of Tirunelveli who had gathered to exercise their constitutional right to free speech and peaceful assembly under Article 19(1) of the Constitution.

APCR said the attack was not only against an individual but an attempt to intimidate civil society and suppress dissent against illegal quarrying practices. It urged the Tamil Nadu government to act swiftly to ensure justice and accountability.

The organization demanded protection for Dr. Suresh, Arappor Iyakkam organiser Jayaraman, and all others involved in civic activities; an impartial investigation into the incident; and a review of quarrying operations in Tirunelveli to ensure transparency and safety for local communities.

APCR praised the continued efforts of PUCL and Arappor Iyakkam in upholding constitutional and environmental rights, urging all civil society groups to unite against attacks on those defending democracy and environmental justice.