The residents of Pottaloorani village, located in Ellainayakkanpatti panchayat, have raised concerns about the adverse environmental impact of three fish processing units operating in their vicinity. Alleging pollution that deprives them of good hygiene, fresh air, and clean water, the villagers have approached the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) seeking intervention.
The recent turmoil in Pottaloorani gained attention when villagers boycotted elections on April 19, culminating in a confrontation when Fisheries Minister Anitha R Radhakrishnan attempted to visit the village.
In a petition to the SHRC chairman, filed by petitioner A Shanmugam on behalf of the villagers, the demand for the permanent withdrawal of licenses for the fish processing companies is emphasized, citing infringement of their fundamental right to health and hygiene.
Furthermore, cases were registered against villagers following the clashes with police and unidentified individuals on April 19. The villagers accused the village administrative officer (VAO) of allowing unauthorized entry to the polling station, inciting unrest during the Lok Sabha polls.
Criticism was also directed towards the district collector, who is the district election officer (DEO), for allegedly neglecting villagers’ grievances, which escalated the situation.
Following the disturbances and the minister’s departure, villagers claimed that the police failed to apprehend individuals armed with weapons. They called out the Pudukottai inspector and Thoothukudi rural DSP for their alleged inaction in arresting the individual causing disruption at the polling station.
In addition to seeking legal action against those responsible, the villagers urged the SHRC for protection from individuals associated with the DMK party and the owners of the fish processing units. They also requested the relocation of government offices to Pottaloorani to ensure their safety from potential threats.
