Vadakadu violence could have been prevented with timely action: CPI(M) State Secretary

CPI(M) State secretary criticizes Pudukkottai district administration for failing to prevent caste-based violence in Vadakadu village.

Criticising the Pudukkottai district administration for failing to prevent the caste-based violence in Vadakadu village, CPI(M) State secretary P. Shanmugam on Saturday said the incident could have been prevented had proper precautionary steps been taken.

Speaking to reporters after visiting affected SC families and others from the Most Backward Class community in Vadakadu, Mr. Shanmugam said the administration was aware of long-standing tensions between the groups and should have ensured additional security during the temple festival on May 5. “The violence could have been prevented with timely intervention,” he said.

He also met those undergoing treatment at Pudukkottai Government Medical College Hospital.

Mr. Shanmugam condemned the police statement issued on May 6, calling it premature as it was released before a full inquiry. “Such unilateral declarations raise concerns about transparency and may undermine public trust,” he said, adding that the case should be transferred to another officer to ensure impartial investigation.

He also urged the district administration to expedite court proceedings related to the temple and sports ground in Vadakadu and said both communities must accept the verdict, whatever it may be.

Mr. Shanmugam also urged the district administration to assess property damage suffered by Dalit residents and provide relief under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. He also requested that a completely burnt house be rebuilt under the Kalaignar Kanavu Illam scheme.

Later, he met Collector M. Aruna and submitted a memorandum urging swift compensation and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing tensions.