CPI(M) Leader Seeks ₹50 Lakh in Damages from Congress Politician Over Defamatory Facebook Post

Pathanamthitta, October 22 (Daily Kiran) : A leader from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) has filed a legal notice demanding ₹50 lakh in damages from a Congress politician in Pathanamthitta, Kerala, over a defamatory Facebook post.

K.P. Udayabhanu, a member of the CPI(M) state committee, has accused Shreena Devi Kunjamma, a Congress district council member, of making false allegations in her post. The notice requires her to remove the post, issue a written apology, and respond within 15 days.

The controversy stems from Kunjamma’s Facebook post, in which she raised questions about Udayabhanu’s conduct during his tenure as the president of the Pathanamthitta district council. She claimed that he visited the home of a female Panchayat employee under the pretense of discussing official matters.

Additionally, Kunjamma questioned the vehicle Udayabhanu is currently using and made various personal allegations against him. Udayabhanu has labeled these claims as false and defamatory, prompting him to initiate legal action.

Previously, based on Udayabhanu’s complaint, the Adur police had registered a case against Kunjamma. The FIR stated that her allegations aimed to damage his public image and portray him as a person leading an improper lifestyle. However, these claims remain unverified.

The political backdrop adds another layer to the situation. Kunjamma was once affiliated with the CPI before joining the Congress party. Her controversial post emerged shortly after Udayabhanu criticized former Congress MLA Rahul Mamakuthil, who was expelled from the party due to sexual misconduct allegations.

What began as a Facebook dispute has escalated into a police case and a demand for substantial damages. The outcome of this controversy now hinges on whether it will lead to an apology, a settlement, or a legal battle in court.