Local politics in way of eviction: Kerala High Court

Kochi: The state government on Wednesday submitted before Kerala High Court that revenue officials could not implement its order to evict Lovedale resort in Munnar due to the resistance from the owner and some local politicians.

The HC had dismissed a petition filed by V.V. George against the order of the then Devikulam sub-collector to take over the resort and 22 cents of land in KDH village. 

Following the HC order, revenue authorities entered the premises to carry out inventory. A notice was also issued to Mr George to be present on July 6. 

In the afternoon, the petitioner along with some political leaders reached and prevented it. They shouted at the officers and restricted their entry.

Mr George handed them a letter expressing his antagonism. As they resisted and obstructed their duties, the officers left.

According to the state government, HC granted three months time to the owner to remove his personal belongings. Immediately after issuing the notice, he had caused extensive damage to doors, windows and removed even the floor tiles. 

Three months times is not required to remove his belongings. The present action of the owner caused enormous loss to the state as it is the property of the government. 

"There is nothing to remove or none staying in the resort. Hence, necessary instructions should be issued," the affidavit stated.

The revenue officers lodged a complaint before the station house officer, Munnar and the police registered a case against Mr George and others, it said.