A sharp rise in violent crime has raised alarm in southern Tamil Nadu, with nearly 30 murder cases reported over the past two months across Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, and Tenkasi districts, which fall under the Tirunelveli police range.
According to police sources cited in a Daily Thanthi report, the surge in killings has triggered growing concern among residents about the deteriorating law and order situation in the region.
Officials said that more than five murders have been recorded in Tenkasi district alone this year. In neighbouring Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi districts, police registered 13 murder cases in January, followed by another 12 killings reported since February.
Among the recent incidents is a double murder reported near Nanguneri in Tirunelveli district. Police suspect the attack may have been carried out as an act of revenge linked to a murder that occurred several years ago. Preliminary investigations suggest that the assailants were allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the attack.
Authorities also indicated that more than 10 women are among the victims in the recent spate of murders, adding to the seriousness of the situation.
Investigators say many of the killings appear to be linked to domestic disputes, illicit relationships, and alcohol-related conflicts. Substance abuse is increasingly being identified as a contributing factor in several of the violent incidents reported in the region.
The repeated acts of violence have caused anxiety among residents across the southern districts, with many questioning whether law and order conditions are deteriorating.
Social activists have called on police authorities to intensify surveillance and take firm action against history-sheeters, anti-social elements, and organised criminal gangs operating in the region. They have also urged authorities to invoke the Goondas Act against repeat offenders without discrimination in order to prevent further crimes and restore public confidence.
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