Authorities in Tamil Nadu detained a number of residents from Udayarpatti village in Pudukkottai district on August 14 after protests against preparations for an annual Islamic festival known as Kanthuri or the Kandhuri Festival. The village has no Muslim residents and the land in question is described as disputed forest area also associated with a Jain site.
Local police took into custody both men and women who had gathered to block the setup for the 14-day event. Those detained were later released after cases were registered. The land at Alangapatti falls under the Kundranandar Kovil Union panchayat and is currently the subject of revenue proceedings to determine ownership.
Representatives from Hindu Munnani stated that the site had been the focus of earlier disputes. In 2024 a religious symbol was placed there by individuals from a nearby Christian community before being removed. A subsequent peace meeting reportedly agreed that no group would undertake activities on the land until ownership questions were resolved.
According to the same representatives Muslims from a settlement several kilometres away arrived to begin festival arrangements. Villagers opposed the move citing the prior understanding and the ongoing revenue inquiry. They expressed concern that the event could lead to future claims over the property.
Police officials indicated that permission for the gathering had been granted and warned against disruption. Detainees were held briefly at a nearby venue before being freed. Reports also noted that a local minister was expected to attend the event.
Muslim claimants maintain that the property belongs to the Waqf Board. They assert full ownership despite the active revenue process examining title and possession. The conflicting positions have raised questions about conducting religious activities on land whose status remains under review.
BJP district leaders criticised the police action against those protesting and called for a clear statement from the district administration on land ownership. They urged authorities to avoid steps that could heighten tensions among communities.
The episode has drawn attention to the handling of disputed religious sites in the region and the role of local officials in managing competing claims. Residents continue to seek clarification on why preparations proceeded while legal proceedings remain open.
Further developments are expected once the revenue department completes its assessment of the land records. Both sides have reiterated their positions through public statements and local meetings.
The situation underscores ongoing challenges in balancing religious practices with administrative processes in areas where multiple communities assert historical or legal rights. Officials have not yet issued a final determination on the property.
