Crematorium land row escalates as other communities demand access

Controversy follows allocation of 20 cents of land to NSS Karayogam unit in Valiyapadam

- SHYAM P V @Palakkad

THE controversy over the allotment of land within the Palakkad municipal crematorium to an NSS Karayogam unit for developing cremation space took an unexpected turn on Saturday. At least six organisations representing the Ezhava, Viswakarma and Cheruman communities formally submitted petitions to the municipality, demanding equitable access to cremation facilities.

The demand follows the allocation of 20 cents to the NSS Karayogam, Valiyapadam, within the public crematorium compound at Mattumantha. While the move sparked criticism from various quarters, including allegations of preferential treatment, municipal authorities have sought to downplay the controversy.