Kala Raju alleged that CPIM area secretary orchestrated her abduction. While no physical harm occurred at the party office, she reported persistent attempts to coerce her into abstaining from the no-confidence vote
Published Jan 19, 2025 | 2:36 PM ⚊ Updated Jan 19, 2025 | 5:58 PM
Koothattukulam councillor accuses CPIM workers of abduction to coerce no-confidence vote
A shocking incident has emerged involving Koothattukulam Municipality Councillor Kala Raju, who has accused CPIM workers of abducting her to force her into abstaining from a no-confidence motion against the LDF-led governing council.
The alleged incident took place on Saturday, 18 January, with Kala Raju claiming that the abduction was orchestrated under the direction of the CPIM area secretary.
While no physical harm was inflicted at the party office, she reported that she was subjected to constant attempts to dissuade her from voting in favour of the motion.
Kala Raju further alleged that DYFI leader Arun Ashokan forcibly dragged her into a vehicle, injuring her leg in the process, and subjected her to verbal abuse.
During the ordeal, she reportedly experienced chest pain, a condition exacerbated by her heart disease.
Despite requesting medical attention, she claimed that she was only provided with basic medication, and further treatment was delayed until approval from party authorities.
This disturbing incident has led Kala Raju to reconsider her affiliation with the CPIM. In a formal complaint made by her children, the police have registered a case against 45 individuals, including CPIM area secretary PB Ratheesh, the municipality chairperson, and the vice-chairman.
However, CPIM area secretary PB Ratheesh has vehemently denied Kala Raju’s allegations.
Speaking to South First, Ratheesh explained that the LDF had decided to boycott the no-confidence motion, but due to Kala Raju’s unavailability, they were unable to inform her directly.
He claimed that Kala was briefed about the decision at the municipality office, spent some time at the area committee office, and was later dropped home.
Ratheesh also blamed the intervention of the UDF for escalating the tensions surrounding the issue.
The case has now taken a political turn, with both the CPIM and UDF trying to position themselves in light of the allegations.
As the investigation continues, the incident has brought intense scrutiny to the political dynamics within the Koothattukulam municipality.
The police have filed additional cases. An FIR has been lodged against members of both UDF and LDF. Charges have also been brought against Anoop Jacob MLA for his involvement in the blockade of the police station.
Meanwhile, LDF workers face allegations of assaulting UDF activists
Rural SP Vaibhav Saxena has stated that an investigation has been initiated to examine any potential lapses on the part of the police. He assured that strict action would be taken if any negligence by the police is identified.
Additionally, he informed the media, that an application has been submitted under Section 164 of the Cr.PC to record Councillor Kala Raju’s statement.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Sreelakshmi Soman)
