CHENNAI: The controversial Chennai Corporation Council meeting, convened by the Commissioner amidst heavy security at Ripon Buildings on Monday, was held in a surprisingly peaceful manner.

Councillors from all parties attended. The Opposition members, especially from the DMK and the Congress, staged a walkout towards the end of the amicable meeting that had all Councillors expressing their views. Nobody was evicted.

Monday's meeting was unusual in many ways. It was held without a Mayor or a Deputy Mayor. Unlike in the past, the microphones were on when everyone spoke.

The Opposition members stayed in the hall for most part of the day. Anyone who wanted to speak was given a chance.

D. Vijay Ramakrishnan, Chairman of the Taxation and Finance Standing Committee of the Council, who was chosen to convene the meeting, advised the members to avoid "tension and becoming emotional."

Though accusations were hurled against officials and the ruling party, those who spoke into the microphone could be heard. The Opposition appreciated the Government's decision to distribute relief materials including Rs. 2,000 in cash but was upset that the Councillors were not consulted while identifying the beneficiaries.

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