MADURAI: When an estimated 50,000-strong people hit the streets with pent up passions, a law and order problem and a resultant police-public clash is usually inevitable. However, Sunday was different.As thousands of villagers, angered by the prospects of losing their livelihood if Kerala has its way in decommissioning the Mullaiperiyar dam, marched towards Kumili from Theni, the police top brass decided to tackle the situation with strategic patience.“We were conscious that this agitation involved a spontaneous participation from the villagers and we needed to handle it differently,” said Rajesh Das, Inspector General of Police (South Zone).That’s precisely why the police, although they have been guarding this side of the border for the past five days skipping a meal or two, chose to use the power of dialogue over the force of lathi.“The protestors were from various strata of society, including farmers, traders, daily wage earners. .. Understanding the nature of this crowd, we realised that one wrong move can lead to an unruly situation and decided to remain patient, come what may. The strategy has paid off,” said a police officer.“This is the first time, I have been standing for long hours convincing and negotiating with the villagers on the need to maintain calm,” he added. Rajesh Das credits “team effort” for the successful handling of the situation so far. “The Superintendents of Police from southern districts displayed good coordination with the local police and special police units to make this happen,” he said.
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