The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has cautioned that no one should believe they can encroach upon water bodies without fear of punishment, while hearing a contempt petition over alleged inaction by officials.
The case was filed by Murugesan of Naduppatti near Alangudi in Pudukottai district. He said encroachments exist in the Samuthirakulam water body at Kallalangudi and that a 2024 court direction to remove them within six months had not been complied with.
He sought contempt action against the district Collector Aruna, Alangudi Tahsildar William Moses, and Thiruvarangulam Block Development Officer Senthilkumar. The matter was heard by Justices G.R. Swaminathan and B. Pugalendhi.
The government side submitted that many houses had been built on the water body and that officials were unable even to conduct a land survey or serve notices due to the prevailing situation.
In its order, the Bench said the State was not weak and directed the district Superintendent of Police to provide protection for officials to carry out measurements and deliver notices. It also said restraining orders could be issued during the survey if required.
