On July 5, Tamil Nadu BSP chief K Armstrong was hacked to death in Chennai, allegedly in retaliation for a 2023 Arcot Suresh gangster's murder. Though BSP is a non-player in the state, Armstrong – a staunch Ambedkarite – was known for advocating for Dalits rights. Though 11 people have been arrested, BSP president Mayawati called for a CBI probe.