Chennai: DMK president M K Stalin on Wednesday said Tamil Nadu was witnessing a `disturbing rise in murders,’ and alleged the chief minister was “missing in action” to prevent spike in violence. He said the govt was busy with ‘publicity management’ instead of ensuring public safety.Listing out murders reported from various districts, Stalin in his X post said that criminals have become emboldened because they see no fear of swift investigation or punishment. He accused chief minister C Joseph Vijay of running the state like a film set with staged events. “Law and order cannot be handled through slogans, social media posts, or PR-driven appearances,’’ Stalin said alleging that Vijay was on a ‘shooting mode.’Stalin said police force has been weakened by political interference, confused priorities, and a lack of clear direction from the top, allowing criminals to operate with confidence. He said TVK regime has created a climate where criminals feel protected and victims feel abandoned.Vijay should stop offering excuses for governance failure and immediately strengthen policing on the ground, fast-track investigations, and ensure visible patrolling in vulnerable areas. Stalin also called for accountability within the Home Department, saying the chief minister cannot evade responsibility when murders continue unabated.