Krishnagiri: Residents of Kelamangalam town under the Thalli constituency in Krishnagiri staged a protest on Monday, opposing eviction notices served by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) and revenue departments. As many as 1,027 houses, built decades ago on temple-owned land, have been home to these families for two generations, triggering sharp reactions.
Protest Details
The demonstration, led by CPI MLA A Ramachandran, saw shops shut across the town and nearly 300 police personnel deployed to maintain law and order. CPI state secretary M Veerapandian also joined the protest and addressed the gathering, asserting that the state government must take a policy decision not to demolish occupied houses. “If no resolution is reached, our struggle will continue,” he warned. Veerapandian and Ramachandran later held talks with HR&CE officials.
Political Statements
Speaking to reporters, Veerapandian emphasised CPI’s role in the INDI alliance at the national level, stating that the coalition must be strengthened for the country’s welfare. On the question of alliance politics in Tamil Nadu, he noted that CPI had supported the Tamilaga Vettrik Kazhagam (TVK) government from outside, despite some parties leaving the DMK-led front to join the ruling side. He added that CPI’s official stance on continuing or withdrawing support would be finalised in the party’s executive committee meeting scheduled for June 10–11.
Reacting to DMK leader M K Stalin’s remark that the TVK government would last only three months, Veerapandian said, “As a senior leader who has held many responsibilities, Stalin should not have made such a statement. CPI’s view is that the TVK government must continue for five years, uphold secularism, serve the poor, and fulfil promises. If it carries forward the welfare schemes introduced by Stalin, CPI will extend its support,” he added.
Background
The eviction notices have sparked widespread concern among residents, who have lived on the temple land for generations. The protest highlights the ongoing tension between religious endowments and long-standing occupants. The CPI leaders have called for a policy-level intervention to prevent displacement of poor families.
