Over 500 small traders have been evicted from Tiruchendur Murugan temple premises in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, as vendors express anguish over losing their livelihoods, which they have depended on for many years.
The administration of the Tiruchendur Subramaniya Swamy Temple has intensified efforts to remove more than 500 small-scale vendors who have been selling flowers, fruits, photographs, toys, garlands, sundal, pani puri, and other items along the Girivalam pathway and pedestrian areas surrounding the temple.
These vendors, who have depended on the temple surroundings for their livelihood for many years, opposed the move, stating that they have been earning their daily income through these businesses.
The temple administration cited obstruction to devotees’ movement and overcrowding during festivals and peak pilgrimage periods as the reason for the eviction drive.
As part of the operation, temple security personnel and police officers, under the supervision of Temple Assistant Commissioner Loganathan, removed vendors operating in the temple and beach areas.
Announcements were made through loudspeakers, instructing vendors to immediately clear their merchandise from the walkways, warning that any remaining goods would be confiscated.
However, the traders strongly opposed the eviction process and expressed frustration over being forced to leave the temple premises.
Flower vendor Mariyappan, speaking emotionally, said: “We earn our living through honest work. If we are suddenly asked to leave, where are we supposed to go? We are not involved in any illegal activities. Every time an official comes, the vendors are targeted and asked to vacate. The livelihood of many people around the temple depends on small traders like us. Please do not treat us like cattle.”
Despite protests from vendors, the temple administration continued the eviction drive, leading to a brief period of tension and commotion within the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple premises.
Over 500 small traders were evicted from Tiruchendur Murugan temple, with vendors expressing anguish over losing livelihoods while the temple cites overcrowding during festivals.
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