Pickle not served for 4th time, couple attacked at temple feast

Kottayam: A couple was assaulted for not serving pickles multiple times during an annadanam at a temple in Alappuzha. Rajesh Babu and his wife, Archana, were beaten up during the function at Elanjiparambu temple in Vellakkinar, Alappuzha. Rajesh is an office bearer of the temple committee. Based on the complaint of the couple, police have booked Arun alias Kichu, 23, a resident of Alappuzha stadium ward.

The incident happened on April 1. A large number of people had turned up for the annadanam. The accused, Arun, demanded pickles several times and was served pickles three times. There was a verbal altercation between Arun and the person who served the food when the former asked for pickles the fourth time.

Rajesh intervened and tried to settle the issue. However, Arun abused Rajesh and started beating him. Rajesh, who is an autorickshaw driver, sustained injuries on his chest. Archana, who tried to rescue her husband, was also beaten up. Later, police removed the youth from the temple premises. The couple later sought treatment at a hospital. The youth was booked after police took the statements of the couple.