Political tensions have escalated in Kerala’s Kannur district as the Congress party accused CPI(M) leaders of insulting Mahatma Gandhi and obstructing the construction of his statue in Malappattam. Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan alleged that CPI(M) leaders were “outperforming the Sangh Parivar” in disrespecting Gandhi, following clashes between Youth Congress and CPI(M) workers during a protest march.
The controversy erupted after CPI(M) district secretariat member P V Gopinath allegedly threatened that he would not allow the installation of a Gandhi statue in the area. Satheesan demanded legal action against Gopinath, urging urging the police to register a case for publicly insulting Gandhi and issuing threats.
The situation intensified on Wednesday evening when Youth Congress activists, led by state president and MLA Rahul Mamkootathil, marched through Malappattam in protest against the alleged vandalism of a Gandhi statue installed by the party. The demonstration led to violent clashes between Congress and CPI(M) workers, with both sides reportedly hurling stones and bottles at each other, prompting police intervention.
Satheesan further accused Gopinath of making derogatory remarks, allegedly threatening to destroy the statue if it was built near the residence of Youth Congress mandalam secretary Saneesh. He also claimed that similar statements were made by the CPI(M) Kannur district secretary.
Despite the escalating tensions, Satheesan reaffirmed Congress’s commitment to erecting the statue, stating, “The Congress will construct a statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Malappattam for sure.” Meanwhile, CPI(M) has yet to respond to the allegations.
The incident has sparked widespread debate, with political observers noting the growing friction between the two parties in Kerala. As investigations continue, the focus remains on whether legal action will be taken against those accused of obstructing the statue’s construction.
