Is former Kerala DGP Tomin J. Thachankary involved in land grabbing in Kochi?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- CPI(M) protests against former DGP Tomin J. Thachankary for land encroachment.
- Protests led by C.M. Dinesh Mani highlight serious allegations of illegal land occupation.
- Police intervened to maintain order as tensions rose.
- Protestors vow to continue their struggle for justice.
- This incident adds to Thachankary's controversial legacy.
Kochi, Aug 18 (NationPress) Tensions escalated in the Thammanam region of Kochi on Monday when CPI(M) activists launched a protest, charging former Kerala Director General of Police Tomin J. Thachankary with extensive land encroachment.
Thachankary, who stepped down as Kerala DGP in 2023, was the focal point of the demonstration organized by the local Thammanam committee, which saw a significant turnout of party supporters.
Protesters claimed that Thachankary has unlawfully seized large areas of land in the vicinity.
They specifically pointed to encroachments near Ryan Studio.
As demonstrators moved towards the contested area, police intervened to halt their progress, resulting in heated confrontations between law enforcement and party members.
The protest kicked off with CPI(M) leader and former legislator C.M. Dinesh Mani delivering a scathing critique of the ex-IPS officer.
Mani alleged that "Thachankary’s ascent in the police ranks was not due to competence but through dubious means."
“Every position and privilege he enjoyed was acquired by making deals and flattering the powerful. What he has done here is nothing short of blatant land grabbing,” Mani claimed.
He further accused Thachankary of flouting civic regulations for personal benefit, a point that was met with applause from the crowd.
“Thachankary has been ready to bend and crawl before others for his own interests,” stated Mani.
Police maintained strict security measures in the area to prevent further escalation.
While no significant injuries were reported, the atmosphere remained tense for some time.
Party members vowed to continue their protests until the seized land is returned and appropriate legal measures taken.
This demonstration highlights yet another controversy involving Thachankary, who has faced scrutiny throughout his career.
Previously known for his close ties to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan during his 15 years as state party secretary, reports suggest that differences of opinion may have developed between the two.