CPM Kannur Secretary’s warning to IUML sparks row; BJP seeks probe into Walayar lynching

Kannur (Kerala): CPM Kannur District Secretary KK Ragesh has drawn sharp criticism after delivering a fiery speech at Parade Town in Kannur. In his address, Ragesh warned that workers of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) would be unable to leave their homes if the CPM chose to retaliate.

His remarks followed the political controversy that has erupted after a migrant worker named Ram Narayan Baghel was killed in a mob attack in Walayar on December 17.

The CPM has accused the RSS of orchestrating the attack, while the BJP denied the allegations.

Ragesh cautioned that the restraint shown by CPM cadres should not be mistaken for weakness. “If we decide to respond, League workers will not be able to step out of their houses,” he declared, sparking outrage among opposition parties. Critics accused the CPM leader of issuing open threats and heightening political tensions in the district.

Meanwhile, BJP leader V Muraleedharan has accused the ruling CPM in Kerala of attempting to shift blame for the mob lynching onto the BJP and RSS, following the conclusion of local body elections.

Speaking to ANI, Muraleedharan argued that the incident occurred in an area where the CPM enjoys overwhelming control. He noted that of the 21 seats in the local body concerned, the CPM holds 14, while the BJP has just one representative.

Muraleedharan alleged that 15 to 20 people were present at the scene where a migrant labourer was killed, claiming that several CPM workers were involved. He added that the FIR would reveal further details, including the alleged involvement of a former Congress gram panchayat member.

Calling for accountability, the BJP leader demanded a fair investigation and urged the state government to prosecute those responsible, leaving it to the public to judge who bears responsibility for the crime.

(With ANI inputs)