In Tamil Nadu, inter-caste couple get death threats, seek protection

CHENNAI: A married couple, who belong to different castes, lodged a complaint with the Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) claiming their lives are in danger from their relatives who allegedly send them death threats, opposing their union. The couple said they have been cooped up at home, frightened for their lives. They are unable to take up jobs and are facing a financial crunch.
Police said Anandakumar, 25, a resident of Vayalur Kuppam in Minjur married Malathy of a different community in 2018. The couple's families had not approved of their relationship, so they eloped and got married.
They had been living outside their village until they moved back into the village two years ago. The couple have two children and take up menial jobs to support the family.
The couple, in a petition, submitted that they are receiving threats from their relatives, especially from Malathy's family. A man who had helped them get married is also being threatened, they said.
Though they had lodged a complaint at the Kattur police station, the couple claimed the police officials were biased and supported the locals. No action has been initiated against their relatives. They continue to receive threats from different people even four years after marriage. The revenueofficials have promised to initiate action against those behind the threats.