A major controversy has erupted at the Mandapam Sri Lankan Tamil Rehabilitation Camp after Sub-Collector Kalai Mannan allegedly threatened to ‘hit a refugee with a slipper’ when he inquired about a pending leave application.
Over 1,500 Sri Lankan Tamils, who fled to Tamil Nadu due to the civil war and economic hardships in their home country, reside at the Mandapam camp. Residents are required to obtain formal permission from the camp’s Sub-Collector to travel outside the district for personal visits or medical treatment.
According to reports, Jeganathan, 50, a resident of the camp, had applied for leave a week ago to travel to Chennai for medical treatment. When the leave was not granted, Mr. Jeganathan approached Kalai Mannan again to follow up on his application.
A video capturing the ensuing confrontation has since surfaced online, showing the Sub-Collector using abusive language and shouting that he would hit Jeganathan with a slipper.
When contacted District Collector M. Sivaguru Prabhakaran said, they were awaiting direction from the higher officials regarding disciplinary actions against the official.
Published – September 10, 2026 09:12 pm IST
