Kerala Eviction Move Against Dalit Families Sparks Major Political Row

 Thiruvanathapuram: The Munsif Court in Perambavoor has ordered the police to complete the eviction at Malayidom Thuruth by May 23, sparking concerns of renewed tension as residents refuse to leave.

The court instructed the Aluva Rural SP to ensure adequate security for the operation and to submit a report once it’s done. On Wednesday, the Supreme Court-mandated eviction near Kizhakkambalam in Ernakulam district led to violent protests, leaving several people, including members of Dalit families, injured.

The dispute involves a 58-year-old claim over 19.30 acres of government Poramboke land by the descendants of Malayidom Thuruth Kannoth Sankaran Nair. Four years ago, the Supreme Court ruled in their favor, ordering the removal of occupants from the contested 2.65-acre section.

Seven scheduled caste families facing eviction are descendants of Kalu Karumban, who decades ago fought against Nair over the land. They insist they’ve lived in the area for generations.

The Dalit families say they can’t afford to fight their rivals in the apex court, leaving them helpless and appealing for government intervention.

Advocate Commissioner Jayabal has tried 14 times since 2023 to carry out the eviction order, but each attempt during the LDF government’s tenure failed due to strong resistance. On Wednesday, the 15th attempt turned violent when a large number of police stormed the colony, tore down agitation shelters, and used water cannons on protestors, including elderly women.

Residents formed a human chain, and some even threatened to commit suicide. One resident poured petrol on himself and threatened to set himself on fire, prompting police to use a water cannon to prevent a crisis. The intervention of Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala halted police action, but cases were registered against 50 people, including CPM workers, for obstructing court-ordered eviction proceedings.

Many believe the CPM, reeling from losing 14 assembly seats in Ernakulam, is trying to turn this into a major issue, portraying the Satheeshan government as “anti-Dalit” while positioning themselves as champions of marginalized communities.

On Thursday, the CPM held a large protest led by former industries minister P. Rajeev, who warned the agitation would be intensified if the government failed to provide relief to the Dalit families.