Dalits from Adi Dravidar Colony, Avadanapatti village, near Krishnagiri have accused three caste Hindu families of encroaching upon a vacant land meant for public purpose in their colony for the last eight years.

Over 50 persons thronged the Collectorate and submitted a petition to District Revenue Officer, C. Prakasam here on Monday demanding that the encroachments be removed.

The Dalits alleged that caste Hindus had erected two flag posts and hoisted a PMK flag and a Vanniyar Sangam flag and fear that it will flare up community clash.

In a petition, they alleged that three persons had encroached upon the land meant for a school and built houses and shops. Besides, the caste Hindu families blocked the flow of sewage into the main outlet from the Dalit colony.

This resulted in stagnation of sewage for more than a year posing serious health hazard to the residents.

Receiving the petition, Mr. Prakasam assured the Dalits to take action with the consultation of District Collector V. Arun Roy, who is away in Chennai on an official visit.