Kochi, 21 May (H.S.):

The Perumbavoor Munsiff Court has issued strict directions to authorities to complete the eviction of Dalit families residing at Pariyathukavu in Malayidamthuruth, Ernakulam district, within the next two days, escalating a long-running and controversial dispute that has triggered public protests and political attention.

The court instructed police officials to ensure that the eviction process is completed by Saturday and directed the Aluva Rural Superintendent of Police to provide adequate security during the operation. The directive follows instructions issued by the Supreme Court, under which the Munsiff Court has been entrusted with the responsibility of implementing the judgment.

The court has also ordered that a compliance report be submitted after the eviction process is completed. In addition, adequate police protection has been mandated for the advocate commissioner overseeing the execution of the order.

The case concerns seven to eight Dalit families who have reportedly been residing at Pariyathukavu for several decades. Authorities have repeatedly attempted to execute the court order, making the latest move the 15th effort to carry out the eviction.

A previous attempt earlier this week ended amid strong public resistance and protests by local residents. Advocate Commissioner Jayapalan had reached the area to oversee the process, but protesters gathered in large numbers and obstructed the eviction proceedings, forcing officials to halt the operation.

The issue has since attracted wider political attention. State Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has sought a detailed report from the State Police Chief regarding the developments and directed that it be submitted within three days. The minister has also asked officials to examine whether there had been any lapses in police handling of the situation.

The earlier eviction attempt had reportedly turned violent, resulting in clashes that left several people, including elderly residents, injured. Police subsequently arrested 16 individuals and registered cases against around 50 people in connection with the unrest.

The developments have intensified concerns over the handling of the long-standing land dispute and the welfare of the affected families.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman