Munnar Task Force member Suresh Kumar of VS Achuthanandan is publishing the book

A book by former IAS officer K Suresh Kumar, one of the three officers tasked with leading the eviction of encroachers and demolition of unauthorized structures in and around Munnar during VS Achuthanandan’s tenure as chief minister, was released here on Saturday.

The release of VSnu Oppam Ente Dinangal sparked interest in this period of history and the man at its heart.

The book was released by Congress leader K. Sudhakaran by handing over to former Kerala High Court judge B. Kemal Pasha. Mr. Pasha said at the ceremony that the evictions were practically abandoned in half due to political opposition. He pointed out that over the past 10 years, resorts have mushroomed in the region.

However, Joseph C. Mathew, who was the then Chief Minister’s IT advisor, said that though the Munnar mission could not be completed, it was not a failure. It was a warning to those who thought they could somehow interfere with the land, build on it, pay bribes and use influence to ensure it stood there. Munnar eviction squads created a feeling that such buildings would be demolished if determined caretakers were sent.

IAS officers B. Ashok and N. Prasanth, Achuthanandan’s former secretary KM Shajahan, and publisher AV Sreekumar spoke.

Published – June 6, 2026 11:41 PM IST