9 families ostracised after TN civic polls

Fearing for their lives, the familes have fled the village and submited a petition to the district revenue officer seeking protection.They have also sent a petition to the Chief Minister`s special cell seeking immediate action, Muniyasamy, whose family is among the ones ostracised, said.

During the civic polls, a group of people led by Muniyasamy reportedly worked for Mahalaxmi, a candidate for the Manthikulam panchayat president post, and resident of neighbouring Laxminarayanapuram. Saraswati,another candidate, also contested for the same post. But both lost.

Panchayat clerk Kriyaoosi Thangam had proposed Saraswati`s name for the post since it was reserved for women candidates. Unhappy with his choice of candidate, the group had worked for the other candidate.

Following the loss, Saraswati`s supporters, led by Thangam, convened a metting on October 22 in the village and passed a resolution, ostracising nine familes, Muniyasamy alleged.

Besides,they were also allegedly barred from attending functions in the village, buying groceries in shops and sitting in public places, Muniyasamy claimed.