KOCHI: Preetha Shaji of Manathupadam near Edappally here, whose struggle to avert eviction from here property has made headlines, on Sunday launched an indefinite hunger strike in protest against the authorities’ lackadaisical attitude in resolving the issue. Thrikkakara MLA P T Thomas inaugurated the protest at a meeting at Edappally which was also attended by Ernakulam MLA Hibi Eden and several social activists.
Indicating she is not averse to a long-drawn protest, Preetha vowed to continue the indefinite strike till the authorities agree to mediatory talks.
“We do not have the one crore they are demanding from us. There should be some negotiation but the authorities are not willing to come to the negotiating table,” she said.
Addressing the gathering, Hibi said,‘‘The travails encountered by Preetha Shaji should indeed be addressed by the government. We have raised several such cases against the confiscation of property. The active involvement of the state government in enforcing the law can help avert such situations,” said Hibi Eden. Earlier on July 9, the revenue authorities armed with the High Court order attempted to evict Preetha’s family by force.
However, they had to beat a hasty retreat following strong opposition from the people and activists.
A fortnight ago, Preetha along with several others had been taken into custody for protesting in front of the Debt Recovery Tribunal here.