A tense moment unfolded in Tamil Nadu’s Tirunelveli on Wednesday when journalists intervened and stopped a transgender protester from jumping off a bridge during a demonstration demanding free house-site pattas or government houses.
A group of transgender persons had gathered outside the Tirunelveli District Collector’s office, sitting on the Tirunelveli–Thiruvananthapuram Highway and blocking traffic.
They held placards and raised slogans, alleging that despite submitting petitions several times, including during Chief Minister MK Stalin’s special grievance redressal camp, no action had been taken on their request for land pattas or housing.
During the protest, one of the participants suddenly ran towards the Thamirabarani river bridge and attempted to jump. Journalists covering the protest chased after her and managed to pull her back, preventing a tragedy.
Officials on the spot attempted to negotiate with the protesters.
As District Collector’s convoy was exiting the premises, demonstrators blocked the vehicle, forcing the Collector to step out and speak to them. Surrounded by authorities, the Collector assured that steps would be taken to address their housing demands. Following the assurance, the protesters dispersed.
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