Kannanallur Panchayat President Killed Over Drinking Water Dispute, Accused Arrested

A 68-year-old panchayat president died on Friday evening after being struck on the forehead with a brick following an argument over drinking water supply at Kannanallur near Valliyur in Tirunelveli district. Police have arrested a 40-year-old local resident in connection with the killing.

The deceased was identified as Maharajan, president of the Kannanallur panchayat and a resident of Thamaraikulam South Street. According to the Tirunelveli district police, the fatal altercation took place after the accused, identified as Isakkiyappan of the same locality, approached Maharajan regarding a disruption in the local drinking water distribution.

Police said the dispute began when water released from the village's public overhead tank allegedly failed to reach Isakkiyappan's residence. Upset over the disruption, Isakkiyappan went to Maharajan's house on Friday evening to question him about the supply failure.

A verbal confrontation reportedly broke out between the two men and quickly escalated into a heated altercation. During the fight, Isakkiyappan allegedly picked up a brick lying at a nearby construction site, struck Maharajan on the forehead, and fled the spot.

Maharajan sustained severe injuries in the attack. His relative, Sankar, immediately took him to a private hospital in Parappadi for initial treatment. Doctors at the facility evaluated his condition and referred him to the Nanguneri Government Hospital for further medical care.

Maharajan succumbed to his injuries while being transported to the government hospital. Following the incident, the Valliyur police registered a case and arrested Isakkiyappan. Police stated that a further investigation is currently underway.