Mon Dec 16 14:23:49 UTC 2024: ## Tribal Man Dragged on Car Bonnet by Tourists in Kerala; MP Demands Stringent Action

**WAYANAD, KERALA** – A shocking incident in Wayanad, Kerala, has sparked outrage after a tribal man was dragged on the bonnet of a car for nearly half a kilometer by a group of tourists. The incident, captured on CCTV footage that has since gone viral, shows 49-year-old Mathan, a resident of Mananthavady, being dragged down the road after intervening in a verbal altercation between two tourist groups at a check dam site in Koodal Kadavu.

Mathan, who was a bystander, reportedly questioned the tourists’ behavior, leading to the brutal act. He sustained injuries to his hands and legs. Police have registered a case, seized the vehicle involved, and are working to apprehend the accused, who are reportedly identified.

The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from various quarters. Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has called for stringent action against the perpetrators, demanding speedy justice from the Kerala government. Kerala Minister for SC, ST & BC, O R Kelu, himself a tribal from Wayanad, described the incident as “very serious” and assured that action will be taken. Other prominent figures, including former State Minister K. Radhakrishnan and Wayanad MLA T. Siddique, have also voiced their anger and demanded swift justice. Popular tribal leader C.K Janu alleges the tourists were under the influence of alcohol and drugs and called for their immediate arrest.

While police are yet to make arrests, they have identified the suspects and are expected to take them into custody soon. The incident highlights concerns over the treatment of tribal communities in the region and has ignited a public outcry for accountability and justice.

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