Two men hacked to death at Kancheepuram temple festival over songs

Two men were hacked to death near Kancheepuram early on Monday after a dispute over film songs during a temple festival. New Indian Express identified the deceased as Chandru (26) and Vicky (27), while Times of India named them as Neelakandan (25) and Chandru (24). Both sources say they were from Padunelli village.

The argument broke out on Sunday night during a cultural programme at the Ponniamman temple festival. Times of India reports the dispute was over performing gana songs. New Indian Express says intoxicated men demanded film songs, and police intervened to remove them. Both outlets state that after police left, an unidentified gang attacked the two men with sharp weapons as they sat near their homes, killing them on the spot.

Residents have alleged police negligence in preventing the attack, though police have formed special teams and are examining CCTV footage. Three persons have been identified, but their involvement is not yet confirmed, according to New Indian Express. Security has been stepped up in Padunelli to prevent further violence.