TIRUNELVELI: Tirunelveli district police have arrested a man in connection with the murder of a 68-year-old panchayat president following a dispute over drinking water supply at Kannanallur near Valliyur on Friday evening.The deceased was identified as Maharajan, president of Kannanallur panchayat and a resident of Thamaraikulam South Street.Police said the incident occurred after Isakkiyappan, 40, of the same locality, approached Maharajan over an issue with drinking water distribution.According to police, water released from the village’s public overhead tank allegedly failed to reach Isakkiyappan’s house. He then went to Maharajan’s residence to question him about the water supply. An argument reportedly broke out between the two and soon escalated.During the altercation, Isakkiyappan allegedly picked up a brick lying at a nearby construction site and struck Maharajan on the forehead before fleeing the spot.Maharajan, who sustained serious injuries, was taken by his relative Sankar to a private hospital in Parappadi. Doctors later referred him to Nanguneri Government Hospital for further treatment. However, he died while being taken to the hospital.Valliyur police have registered a case and arrested Isakkiyappan in connection with the incident. Further investigation is underway.
