Kochi: Preetha Shaji, struggling for recalling an order of the Debt Recovery Tribunal(DRT), Ernakulam, auctioning her 18.5 cents of land and a house at Mannthupadam near Edappally in Kochi for Rs 28 lakh in 2013, has begun an indefinite hunger strike on Sunday. The family of Preetha Shaji alleges foul play in the order of the DRT as the land value is much higher than the auction amount.
Although the family has been pleading that they should be allowed to sell the land at market price and settle the bank loan the authorities concerned have not taken any steps in this direction, alleged the supporters of the family.
Speaking after inaugurating the hunger strike, P.T. Thomas MLA alleged that the state government has shown double standards in the matter. He said the chief minister and finance minister have no qualms in expressing support for the family while sending the police against those involved in highlighting the issue.
A slew of political leaders and social activists converged at the residence of Preetha Shaji near Mannathupadam on Sunday to express support to the struggle. All India Women's Federation President Annie Raja, scheduled to inaugurate the struggle, cancelled the visit at the last minute. Hibi Eden MLA, social activist C.R. Neelakandan and several others were present at the venue.
