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 a temple-owned land has been home to these families for two generations, triggering sharp reactions.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.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 govt 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.
