In a disturbing incident from the Thatrahalli area of Krishnagiri district, two Scheduled Caste women have accused Nagaraj, a local DMK functionary, of caste-based abuse, sexual harassment, and coercion in exchange for land rights (patta). The women allege that Nagaraj exploited their vulnerable status being widowed or abandoned and threatened them with eviction if they failed to comply with his demands.
Tamil Selvi, a 30-year-old widow and mother of four (three daughters and one six-year-old son), and Muniyammal, a single mother of two, are among the women who have not received official land ownership (patta) despite residing in Thatrahalli for over 30 years. While others in nearby dwellings have been granted land rights, these women claim they were deliberately excluded.
According to their statements, Nagaraj had repeatedly summoned them over the past five years, demanding they clean toilets at his home. When they refused, he allegedly used caste slurs and threatened them with eviction. The women said they were told not to approach authorities regarding the patta, or they would be forced to vacate their homes.
Speaking to the media, the women expressed deep fear for their safety. Tamil Selvi said, “My husband’s name is Ramraj, he has passed away. We’ve been living here for about 30 years. There were no problems when we lived in a thatched hut. The Krishnagiri District Chairman, who is from the DMK party, started causing problems. He called me to work at his house, to clean his bathroom. I told him I couldn’t come because I have children to take care of and I can’t leave them. He then said, “You are a ****, low-caste woman. You won’t listen to me. I will see how you stay in this place. I will make sure you vacate this house. You won’t be allowed to stay here.” He started threatening me daily. At night, they throw stones at my house and break things. They bang on my door and cause many problems. Everyone in this town knows about the troubles we, with our four children, are facing.”
Muniyammal said tearfully, “He says, “When I call you, you have to come. Everyone else here comes when I call them, why don’t you?” It’s really hard to sleep here with children. At night, some unknown people who are drunk come and create a ruckus. They took my signature, saying a land title deed (patta) has come. They asked me to sign and I did. A week later, when I went and asked about the patta, because everyone else got it but we didn’t, they said my name wasn’t on the list. When I asked why they took my signature, they said, “Nagaraj said that you will not be given a patta.” (He threatens me saying), “I will throw any amount of money at you. Come to me, and I will build you a house. If you don’t come, I won’t let you stay on this land.” He has been threatening me like this for five or six years.”
They further alleged that Revenue Department officials, without prior notice, arrived late at night to carry out eviction-related actions, adding to their distress. The women have called for immediate intervention and strict action against Nagaraj for harassment, abuse of power, and caste-based discrimination.
(With Inputs From Malai Murasu)
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