Thiruvananthapuram, April 3: The leader of the opposition in the Kerala Assembly, V.D. Satheesan, has intensified the political debate surrounding alleged communal campaigns in Perambra. He accused the CPI-M of employing a “repetitive strategy” to polarize voters.
Satheesan stated that targeting UDF candidate Fatima Tahalia is not an isolated incident but a calculated attempt to create communal divisions. He likened this situation to the ‘Kafir Screenshot’ controversy that emerged during the Lok Sabha elections in Vadakara.
The opposition leader alleged that despite senior CPI-M leaders being aware of such incidents in the past, accountability has not been established. He emphasized that even with “clear evidence,” investigative agencies have failed to reach the culprits.
Satheesan also questioned the role of the state police, claiming that the ‘Kafir Screenshot’ case was dismissed on the grounds that the accused could not be identified, even though suspicions surrounded CPI-M and DYFI activists. He described this as a tendency to evade action in political matters.
Linking the entire controversy to the electoral context, he asserted that the CPI-M is taking “desperate steps” due to rising discontent against the Pinarayi Vijayan government. According to him, the ruling party is resorting to communal sentiments and polarization to divert public attention from growing anger.
Satheesan remarked, “The CPI-M’s attempt to divide society on communal lines will not shield them from the increasing public outrage.” He claimed that there is a widespread sentiment in Kerala to oust the current government.
He urged the Election Commission of India to take immediate and stringent action regarding the matter. Satheesan warned that if strict measures are not implemented, communal issues could gain further traction in the electoral atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission has issued notices to both left candidate Ramakrishnan and Fatima Tahalia. Voting for 140 assembly seats in Kerala is scheduled for April 9.
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