The Tripunithura Municipality has taken swift disciplinary action by suspending revenue inspector Jayasankar after allegations emerged that he misused his official authority in a contentious sealing operation involving a popular local restaurant. The move came after widespread public outcry and intervention by senior municipal officials, who deemed the inspector’s actions unauthorised and legally unsound.
According to authorities, the revenue inspector unilaterally sealed the restaurant premises, citing alleged unpaid tax dues of approximately ₹41,000, without obtaining the necessary approval from the municipal secretary or the elected council. This procedural lapse prompted immediate scrutiny from the municipality’s leadership, which confirmed that the inspector’s actions were taken without legal backing and contrary to established administrative protocols.
The sealing sparked a strong reaction from the restaurant owners, Abhilash Devassy and his wife Tintu, who claimed the municipal action was unjustified. The couple stated that following the sealing, unidentified individuals attempted to demolish the property, heightening the tensions. Fearing further damage, they took to the streets in protest, drawing attention to what they described as “heavy-handed and improper enforcement.”
Further investigation revealed that the property in question was not owned by the municipality, and that the dispute primarily stemmed from a contractual disagreement between the landlords and the restaurant operators, with the latter asserting that they had invested nearly ₹80 lakh in building and running the business. They also said they had requested additional time to resolve the matter with the landlord rather than immediately vacate.
Municipal Chairman P. L. Babu confirmed that the decision to suspend the revenue inspector was taken to uphold administrative integrity and ensure adherence to due process. He emphasised that any enforcement action must be taken only after proper verification of legal authority and clearances. The sealing order has been revoked, and authorities are continuing to review the case to prevent similar incidents in future.
This incident has sparked broader discussions about procedural accountability and the need for transparent governance in local bodies.
News as reported
