Act against AIADMK functionary for land grabbing: Villagers

According to police, Muthusamy, a handloom weaver, borrowed Rs 10 lakh from the politician by pledging his land documents.

“He took the money to meet out the medical expenses of his wife Manimegalai, who suffered from a lung infection. After his wife recovered following treatment, Muthusamy met the AIADMK functionary to settle his loan. However, the latter refused to take back his money and claimed to have registered the pledged land in his name,” police said. Depressed over the developments, Manimegalai fell ill again and died on Sunday morning. Following this, the relatives of the deceased woman placed her body in the middle of Sidharkovil Main Road and staged a protest.

On receiving information, the Assistant Commissioner of Police (Salem West) and other cops rushed to the spot and held talks. The protesters alleged that despite submitting a petition, both the police and district administration officials failed to initiate action against the accused.

Tension prevailed as Muthusamy poured kerosene on his body and attempted to commit suicide. However, his bid was thwarted by others nearby.

The villagers withdrew their protest after receiving an assurance that action would be initiated against the accused.