protests against police in Tirunelveli - Palayamkottai.com

A Violent Clash in Paappaakudi Leaves Teen Injured

TIRUNELVELI, JULY 29, 2025 — Tensions flared in Paappaakudi as a 17-year-old youth was critically injured after being shot by the police. According to initial reports, the teenager and another individual allegedly assaulted a Dalit youth. When police officers intervened, they too were reportedly attacked, prompting law enforcement to open fire in self-defense. The teen is currently under treatment at a local hospital, while authorities are actively searching for his accomplice.

Background: Kavin Selvaganesh’s Suspected Honor Killing in KTC Nagar

This shocking event comes in the wake of a suspected honor killing that has shaken the Tirunelveli district. Kavin Selvaganesh, a 27-year-old Dalit man, was found dead in KTC Nagar under suspicious circumstances. His family alleges that his murder was orchestrated due to his romantic involvement with a woman whose parents—both Sub-Inspectors in the Tamil Nadu Police—strongly opposed the relationship citing caste differences.

Police have registered a case against the Sub-Inspector couple and their son, who is accused of carrying out the act. CCTV footage is under review, and the family has refused to accept Kavin’s body, demanding that justice be served and that the accused be suspended and arrested immediately.

Public Outcry and Protests in Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi

In response, large-scale protests have erupted in Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi, with civil rights organizations, student groups, and local communities demanding swift and strict action. Demonstrators are calling for:

• The immediate suspension and arrest of the Sub-Inspector couple

• Transparency in the CCTV review and investigation

• Introduction of a comprehensive anti-honor killing law in Tamil Nadu

These protests are gaining momentum, with activists highlighting the rising number of caste-based atrocities and the urgent need for systemic reforms in both law enforcement and legislation.

Courtallam Falls Closed Due to Monsoon Rains

In parallel, the Western Ghats region, including the famous Courtallam Waterfalls, is experiencing heavy monsoon rainfall. Due to dangerously increased water flow, local authorities have banned bathing at all waterfalls to prevent accidents. Tourists are being advised to follow safety protocols. Meanwhile, special bus services are being arranged to handle the long weekend crowd and the upcoming holiday season.

Political Preparations and Corruption Allegations

Adding to the regional complexity, preparations were underway for the Prime Minister's scheduled visit on July 26, including the construction of a temporary helipad. However, this has also brought renewed scrutiny to ongoing corruption allegations related to local infrastructure projects and government schemes.

Activists and local residents allege that misappropriation of funds and misuse of government machinery are rampant, affecting everything from rural development to tourism infrastructure.