Social Boycott Over Land Dispute? Madras High Court Orders Fresh Probe in TN Village

The Madras High Court has directed district authorities in Krishnagiri to conduct an independent enquiry into allegations of social ostracisation and human rights violations raised by a woman against certain villagers and local panchayat leaders.

The bench of Justice Krishnan Ramasamy issued the direction in a writ petition filed by P. Revathi, who alleged that she and her family were subjected to an illegal social boycott after she refused to allow a neighbouring landowner access through her property.

According to the plea, the dispute originated from a demand by the fourth respondent, who owns adjacent land, seeking a pathway through the petitioner’s land. Upon refusal, the issue was allegedly taken before local “Katta Panchayat” leaders, who are arraigned as respondents in the case.

The petitioner alleged that these local leaders issued an extra-legal diktat imposing severe restrictions on her family. The measures allegedly included complete social ostracisation, denial of access to public water sources, prohibition from purchasing essential goods from local shops, and restriction from participating in religious and social activities.

Further, it was claimed that villagers were warned against interacting with the petitioner’s family, including attending family functions, and penalties were imposed for any violation of the diktat. The petitioner stated that fines of ₹1 lakh were prescribed for her family and ₹25,000 for others who disobeyed the panchayat’s directions.

Despite submitting a representation to the district administration and police authorities in July 2023 seeking action, the petitioner alleged that no effective steps were taken, prompting her to approach the high court.

On behalf of the State, it was submitted that the Revenue Divisional Officer had conducted an enquiry into the allegations and found no such incidents as claimed by the petitioner.

However, the petitioner’s counsel Advocate N. Stalin, with Advocate Gnanavel L, countered this submission, asserting that the situation of social boycott continued to persist in the village and required immediate intervention by the authorities.

Taking note of the rival submissions, court held that an independent enquiry was necessary to ascertain the true state of affairs. It directed the District Collector and Superintendent of Police to conduct such an enquiry and ensure that no injustice is caused to the petitioner.

Court emphasised that the petitioner’s fundamental rights, particularly the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution, must be protected.

It further directed that the enquiry be completed within a period of twelve weeks from receipt of the order.

Importantly, court clarified that if the authorities find any illegality committed by the private respondents, they must take immediate legal action, including registration of a First Information Report against them.

With these directions, the high court disposed of the writ petition.

Case Title: P.Revathi vs. The District Collector, Krishnagiri District, and Others

Order Date: 24 March, 2026

Bench: Justice Krishnan Ramasamy