The Tiruppur district police have refused permission to farmers in Kangayam-Vellakovil at the tail-end of PAP (Parambikulam Aliyar Project) Main Canal to conduct an indefinite hunger strike from October 29 to express dismay over shortage in water distribution by the Water Resources Department (WRD).The PAP Vellakovil Branch Canal (Kangayam-Vellakovil) Water Conservation Association had sought permission for the protest at a private plot of land in Bhagavathipalayam Pirivu in Veeranampalayam village, on the ground that the WRD was not acting tough on water theft crimes.In a reply to Association president P. Velusamy, Deputy Superintendent of Police of Kangayam Division M.
Sasipriya declined permission citing proximity of the protest site to the Coimbatore-Tiruchi National Highway.The protest, the DSP said, would cause disturbance to the general public and transport services, and disrupt daily life.The other reasons for declining permission constituted absence of adequate information on the health condition of the protesters, arrangements made for medical emergency, absence of information on the mode of transport for the protesters to arrive at the venue and parking arrangements; and lack of clarity on the erection of shamiana or stage and sound systems, and safety precautions for power supply.Further, the protest meeting that could trigger law and order problem falls under the regulatory purview under Section 30 of The Police Act, 1861, the DSP said.Mr. Velusamy said the association would go ahead with the protest plan saying the police had not invited its delegates for talks to resolve the issue.The association, he said, expects the WRD to adhere to the principle of equitable water supply advocated by the Madras High Court.