Protest against Suresh Gopi: CPM and BJP clash in Thrissur; stone-pelting and lathi charge leave multiple injured

Thrissur: Tensions flared in Thrissur on Tuesday night after BJP workers clashed with police during a protest march to the CPM district committee office. The BJP was protesting against an earlier march by CPM workers to Union Minister and MP Suresh Gopi’s camp office, where they had demanded his resignation over the ongoing voter list controversy and the recent arrest of Catholic nuns.

BJP had earlier informed the police that their march would move from their party office to the Corporation Office via Pazhayanadakkavu and Swaraj Round. Police deployed security along this route. However, the situation changed unexpectedly when BJP workers deviated and marched towards the CPM district office instead.

Around 8 pm, as BJP workers reached the area, a scuffle broke out, followed by pushing and stone-pelting. Police then used a lathi charge to bring the situation under control.

At least two BJP workers were injured in the stone-throwing and were taken to the hospital. Police have since separated the groups, with BJP supporters gathered near MG Road and CPM workers near their office, both shouting slogans.

The protests began earlier in the evening, around 5 pm, when CPM workers marched to Suresh Gopi’s camp office in Cheroor. During the protest, a CPM worker climbed a wall and poured black oil on the office signboard. He also tried to hang a garland of slippers on it, but was stopped by the police. Though he was briefly taken into custody, CPM leaders reportedly removed him from the police vehicle.

Police have increased security in the area to avoid further incidents.