Mangalore: Forcible eviction - DC inspects, says Malathi's tax receipts 'unclear'
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (DV)
Mangalore, Mar 23: Deputy commissioner (DC) A B Ibrahim on Saturday March 22 evening visited Acharibettu Moodukonaje village in Shirthady near Moodbidri to make enquiries into the alleged forcible eviction of Malathi Poojarthi and her child from her house by police and revenue officials on March 18.
Speaking to media persons later, the DC said, "As the election code of conduct is in force we have ordered officials not to take action against old illegal structures for now. But looking at the newness of the utensils and oven, it seems as if the house was recently built. There is no evidence to claim that the house built by Malathi exists from long. Hence as the house was new, under the supervision of tahsildar the eviction process took place."
He further said, "The door number and tax receipts are not clear. We will take action after investigation. There is evidence suggesting that the receipt was tampered using a different ink. New receipts were issued with old dates. As per the law, if Malathi is supposed to get this disputed land, we will hand it over to her. I will also order the village accountant to inspect other various allegations of illegal encroachments in Moodbidri vicinity. If they are found to be illegal suitable action will be taken."
When reporters asked why the officials had to use such force to evict a woman, he said that there no had been no harassment or forcible action on the part of the officials.
On this occasion Moodbidri tahsildar Mohammed Isaac, revenue inspector Somashekar Mayya, Moodukonaje Padukonaje village accountant V A Usha and women and child development department deputy director Gertrude Veigas were present.
Speaking to reporters, Anganawadi workers' association state president Jayalakshmi said, "Such inhuman assault on a woman is not fair; V A Usha has attacked and assaulted her. Action should be taken against her and all other officers who were involved in forcible eviction before March 27, failing which a state-level protest will be organized. There is law that an empty land near an Anganawadi should be given to Anganawadi assistants to build houses. Hence this land which is near the Anganawadi should be given to Malathi."
Vishalakshi, Nirmala Bhat, and panchayat member Sukesh Shetty was present.