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Vadakara LS seat campaign marred by cyber attack charges, bogus voting concerns

An IUML activist was booked for allegedly making fake and objectionable remarks through social media platforms against KK Shailaja.

ByPTI

Published Apr 17, 2024 | 11:33 AM ⚊UpdatedApr 17, 2024 | 12:27 PM

File photo of KK Shailaja. (X)

Allegations of cyber attacks and apprehensions about bogus voting have marred campaigning in the Vadakara Lok Sabha seat, where two current MLAs — KK Shailaja of the CPI(M)-led LDF and Shafi Parambil of the Congress-led UDF — are fighting to win in the 26 April polls.

While the CPI(M) alleged the UDF has launched a vicious cyber attack against Shailaja, who was also the former health minister of the state, Congress moved the Kerala High Court seeking action to prevent bogus voting in Vadakara in the Lok Sabha elections.

The CPI(M) filed a complaint with the Election Commission against Parambil, alleging that the cyber attack is being done with the candidate’s knowledge and that fake campaigns are being conducted by morphing photos and editing conversations.

IUML activist arrested

On Wednesday, 17 April, an activist of the Indian Union Muslim League was booked for allegedly making fake and objectionable remarks through social media platforms against KK Shailaja.

The New Mahi police in Kannur, registered a case on their own against Aslam, a local functionary of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), amidst widespread criticism against the intense cyber attack against Shailaja for some days.

IUML is a key member of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).

“We registered a case on our own against the accused the other day under Section 153 of the IPC and 120 (O) of the Kerala Police Act,” a police officer said.

While Section 153 of the Indian Penal Code refers to whoever deliberately or wantonly causes or provokes any riot through illegal means, 120 (O) of the KP Act refers to causing nuisance and violation of public order.

An investigation is going on, and further action will be taken soon, he added.

Brinda Karat demands public statement

In a statement, CPI(M) politburo member Brinda Karat condemned “the shameful sexist language” used against Shailaja. She alleged that it was done by the Congress candidate’s social media team in Vadakara.

“It is an insult to the women of Kerala. The Congress, in its desperation, is resorting to such filthy language against a most respected leader,” she said, urging Rahul Gandhi to “immediately make a public statement” condemning his candidate’s “sexist and filthy campaign” in the constituency.

“Immediate action must be taken against him,” she said.

In his plea filed before the high court, Parambil demands that there should be a situation where one can vote without fear, Central forces be deployed in the Vadakara constituency, and the polling process be filmed.

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