Theni, Tamil Nadu, Oct 8 (UNI) Tension prevailed at Bhoothipuram village in the district, when police tried to remove a clay statue of freedom fighter Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar, installed without getting proper permission, as a woman attempted self immolation today.

Police sources said a section of residents of Bhoothipuram had installed the statue at Vazhaiyathupatti road here last year, but police had removed it as proper permission was not obtained from the district administration. Since there was inordinate delay in getting permission for installing the statue, the villagers kept it at a local temple.

Meanwhile, some unknown persons installed the statue in the same area today, causing anxious moments to the villagers.

On information, police rushed to the spot and attempted to remove the statue, amidst stiff opposition from the locals. In the melee, one Subbulakshmi doused herself with kerosene and threatened the police that she would set herself afire if the statue was removed.

Cops swung into action and arrested her along with 14 others.

Theni Superintendent of Police Sudhakaran and Senior Revenue officials rushed to the village along with additional police force.

They assured the agitators that efforts would be made to get sanction from the district administration for installing the statue within a week. Later, the villagers dispersed peacefully.

Armed police personnel were posted in and around the village to prevent any untoward incident, police added.

UNI