Salem (Tamil Nadu), February 13 : A 50-year-old porter worker from Mettur, identified as Murugan, died after allegedly consuming poison mixed with alcohol near the venue of a TVK meeting in Salem, police said.

He reportedly came to Salem and left a letter citing family issues. His body was found in front of the meeting area. A case has been registered. His family is at Salem Government Hospital to receive the body after the postmortem, police added.

Meanwhile, a scuffle broke out between journalists and cadres of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) after a man reportedly suffered a heart attack during a TVK chief Vijay's rally. Journalists alleged that the cadres tried to attack them while covering the incident.

A 37-year-old man from Maharashtra, who reportedly suffered a heart attack during a rally led by TVK chief Vijay earlier today. His body was brought to the hospital in Salem. This death comes months after a stampede during a rally held by Vijay in Karur claimed nearly 40 lives.

Speaking on the incident, the police said, "During the event, he suddenly collapsed. He was rushed for medical assistance, but was declared dead, reportedly due to a heart attack. Police are conducting further inquiries into the incident."

The deceased has been identified as Suraj, who resided in the Sevvaipettai area of Salem and was engaged in silver-related labour. He was married and is survived by his wife and a child. The actor-turned-politician was addressing supporters today amid heavy police deployment and strict entry regulations.

According to sources, the deceased, who attended the meeting organised for party administrators as a spectator, suddenly collapsed. He was immediately rushed to Manima Hospital by those present at the venue, but was declared dead, reportedly due to a heart attack. Police are conducting further inquiries into the incident.