Mon Jan 20 14:35:07 UTC 2025: ## Caste Tensions Erupt in Tirunelveli Over Pongal Celebrations
**TIRUNELVELI, January 20, 2025** – A group of intermediate caste residents from Mela Karungulam village near Tirunelveli have petitioned the City Commissioner of Police, Santosh Hadimani, seeking protection from alleged threats stemming from a recent Pongal celebration. The petitioners claim that songs with communal undertones played during the Ashokapuram hamlet’s Pongal festivities (January 13-17) incited tensions, mirroring similar incidents from last year. Despite filing a prior complaint with the Melapalayam police station, they allege no action was taken, leading to continued unrest in the village. The petitioners urge police intervention to prevent further escalation.
First Piper 