THANJAVUR, August 3: Mariamankovil village, noted for its temple dedicated to Punnainallur Mariamman, seems to have become a refuge for hooch brewers and drug peddlars. Illicit brew is prepared and distributed with impunity, apparantly with political patronage. Drugs too find a safe route through the region from neighbouring AP and Kerala. Ganja is distributed in Thanjavur, Nagapattinam and Peervoorani. The village, which draws hundreds of devotees a day, however lacks basic amenities.

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