Opposing eviction from houses constructed on temple land at Kannankurichi, a man poured kerosene over himself and was removed by policemen here on Wednesday.
The land belonged to Periya Mariamman temple that comes under the Hindu Religious Charitable and Endowment (HR and CE) Department. A total of 11 families constructed houses and shops and were living there. Residents claim that they were paying property tax and electricity bill, but were served notice recently asking them to vacate the land. Hence, they filed a case in the court. They said that notices were served on them again on September 16 asking them to vacate the land. Their attempts to meet the Collector on Tuesday also failed.
On Wednesday, officials along with the police arrived at the area and attempted to demolish the houses. However, opposing the eviction, people staged a protest with a few holding kerosene can in their hands. Later, officials of the HR and CE along with revenue officials held talks with the protesters. People sought two days time for removing their properties and vacate the houses. However, officials said that sufficient time has been given and asked them to vacate immediately.
A man poured kerosene and attempted self-immolation. However, police personnel thwarted his attempt and took him in police vehicle. Later, police removed over 50 protesters, including women, after which the buildings were razed down.
Those with a suicidal tendency can contact State’s health helpline 104 or Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050 for counselling.
