Chennai, November 9:Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay on Monday announced an ex-gratia of Rs 40 lakh for the family of Special Sub-Inspector (SSI) K. Senthil Kumar (57), who died after allegedly being assaulted while performing his duty in Theni district on Sunday night.

The Chief Minister expressed deep sorrow over the officer's death and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, relatives and colleagues. He also directed that financial assistance of Rs 40 lakh be provided to the deceased officer's family.

According to the Chief Minister's statement, Senthil Kumar was attached to the Palanichettipatti Police Station and was deputed to the office of the Theni Deputy Superintendent of Police.

The incident occurred on Sunday night when the officer noticed a group of people bursting firecrackers across a road in the Samatharmapuram area, causing inconvenience to commuters and posing a threat to public safety. He reportedly advised them to stop the activity and move away from the road. He also attempted to record their actions on his mobile phone.

When the officer tried to apprehend one of the youths, a person allegedly struck him with an elbow, causing him to lose his balance and fall to the ground.

A patrolling police team rushed to the spot and shifted him to a nearby private hospital. He was subsequently transferred to the Theni Government Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment, where he succumbed to his injuries despite medical intervention.

Following an inspection of the incident site, the Theni District Superintendent of Police confirmed that three people from the locality had been arrested in connection with the case.

Expressing profound grief, Chief Minister Vijay described Senthil Kumar's death as an irreparable loss to his family and the Tamil Nadu Police Department. He reiterated his condolences and assured financial support to the bereaved family.