Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu: A 17-year-old Dalit boy was brutally assaulted in Melapattam village, Tirunelveli district, on Monday, sparking outrage and prompting a high alert across southern Tamil Nadu. Police have arrested four individuals and are actively searching for two others in connection with the attack.

The incident occurred when the victim was nearly hit by a speeding car near his home. An argument ensued between the teenager and the car's occupants, which was temporarily defused by a bystander. However, the same group allegedly returned later that evening and attacked the boy, striking him on the head with a beer bottle and slashing him with a sickle.

The victim is currently undergoing treatment at Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital with severe injuries.

Following the incident, Dalit residents of Melapattam blocked the road, demanding the arrest of those involved. Six individuals have been identified as accused, according to SP N. Silambarasan. A special team has been formed to apprehend the remaining two suspects, who are still at large. Police are reviewing CCTV footage that shows the group fleeing the village on two-wheelers after the attack.

This incident has heightened tensions in southern Tamil Nadu, where caste-related violence remains a persistent issue. The region has witnessed repeated violent attacks on Dalits in recent years. Sources revealed that the state intelligence recently warned officers in Madurai, Theni, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari about potential caste-related violence.

After the DMK government under Chief Minister M.K. assumed power, Stalin, revenge killings between Dalit communities and other caste groups swept the Madurai and Tirunelveli districts. Stalin, revenge killings between Dalit communities and other caste groups in the Madurai and Tirunelveli districts claimed over four lives. The state DGP had to camp in Madurai during this period to impose strict measures to curb the violence.