Water Scarcity and Violence: The Exodus from Nadagudi Village

Nadagudi village in Tamil Nadu faces desertion due to long-standing water shortages and recent violence. The community struggles as residents leave, seeking safety and basic amenities elsewhere. Meanwhile, the custodial death case of Ajith Kumar reveals deeper systemic issues, highlighting urgent calls for justice and infrastructural improvements.

Nadagudi village in Tamil Nadu's Sivaganga District, once bustling with over 5,000 residents, stands eerily deserted today. A persistent lack of drinking water has forced the community to endure immense hardship, gradually driving families to leave. Thangaraj, a local villager, expressed a plea for help, stating, "Without drinking water and basic facilities, many have moved away."

The situation worsened after two villagers were murdered, intensifying fears and prompting the final exodus for safety reasons. Thangaraj directed an earnest appeal to the District Collector and Chief Minister, urging them to ensure security, water supply, and educational amenities to encourage the villagers' return.

In a related event, the Madurai Bench of Madras High Court ordered Rs 25 lakh in compensation for the custodial death of Ajith Kumar, a temple guard. Kumar's death, marked by 44 injuries, underscores a broader issue of systemic violence, as legal battles ensue following the reduction of the original compensation amount.

(With inputs from agencies.)