Thiruvananthapuram: MLA Kadakampally Surendran has reportedly issued a legal notice to Congress worker M Muneer, accusing him of defaming him and attempting character assassination through a derogatory complaint. The notice, sent via Advocate Sasthamangalam Ajith, demands that Muneer withdraw the allegations, issue a public apology and pay ₹1 crore in damages within 15 days. Failing this, civil and criminal proceedings will be initiated.

Muneer, an advocate and Congress worker from Pothencode, had submitted a complaint to the Kerala Police chief alleging misconduct by Surendran during his tenure as a minister, particularly towards women. The complaint was based on revelations made by Swapna Suresh, an accused in the gold smuggling case, who had previously alleged that Surendran sent her inappropriate messages and attempted sexual misconduct.

The complaint also requests that the police record statements from the women mentioned. Swapna’s allegations against Surendran date back to 2022. The Congress party’s move comes in the wake of a similar case where the Crime Branch suo motu registered a case against MLA Rahul Mamkootathil based on comparable accusations.

Minister V Sivankutty, earlier responding at a press conference, stated that he was unaware of any complaint against Kadakampally Surendran, but affirmed that anyone with grievances is free to pursue legal action.