Alleged fake deed sale triggers dispute
A controversy has erupted in Kumbakonam after Congress mayor Saravanan (46) reportedly bought a plot that was later found to be owned by the Adi Kumbeswarar Temple and allegedly sold using forged documents.
Deal and advance payments
According to the complaint, Venkateswaran of Periya Kadai Street announced in 2024 that he would sell a 2,900 sq ft plot. Saravanan, along with friends Kannan, Manimegalai and Pushpam, decided to purchase it and paid an advance—Saravanan reportedly paid ₹12 lakh, while the others together paid ₹65 lakh.
Temple takes possession; seller goes missing
Venkateswaran is said to have handed over original documents and promised registration after full payment. However, last year, temple officials took possession of the land. After learning the land belonged to the temple, Saravanan repeatedly sought a refund from Venkateswaran.
Bank loan and police complaint
The report says Venkateswaran had also taken a ₹40 lakh loan from a private bank using the same property, and later went into hiding amid pressure for repayment. In the latest incident, Saravanan allegedly entered the shop of Venkateswaran’s brother Bhaskaran on Sarangapani Sannidhi Street and threatened staff using abusive language. Bhaskaran has filed a complaint against Saravanan and the three others at Kumbakonam East Police Station, and an inquiry is under way.
